It is college graduation season in Boston and — just for fun — here are the ten best college commencement speakers in the Greater Boston area per yours truly.
1. Jimmy Page at Berklee College of Music
Can you think of a better living person to speak to a graduating class of musicians? No, no you can’t.
2. Billie Jean King at Simmons College
Even though Billie Jean King has faded from the public eye, she’s still an icon of 70s cool and the battle for gender equality.
3. Joe Andruzzi at Salem State
Even after leaving the New England Patriots for a better deal in Cleveland, Andruzzi maintained ties to the Boston area and his off-the-field charitable work continues to make an impact beyond sports.
4. Bill Nye the Science Guy at UMass Lowell
As John Oliver pointed out on his new HBO show Last Week Tonight, Bill Nye has become the best-known public defender of the science that proves climate change. Nye’s show has been off the air for years but he still makes the rounds on the speaking circuit and television.
5. Jay Leno at Emerson College
The North Shore native, now free from the constraints of the Tonight Show, is back doing what he does best: stand-up comedy. His routine before Emerson should be good for a few laughs.
6. Deval Patrick at Boston University
The lame duck governor may be facing some bumps in his final year in office but he still manages to give a great speech.
7 Abraham H. Foxman at Suffolk University
The national director of the Anti-Defamation League should have some useful advice to impart on the graduating class of Suffolk Rams.
8. Michael Bloomberg at Harvard University
The controversial former New York City mayor may upset many but he is still a successful businessman full of entrepreneurial wisdom.
9. John Kerry at Boston College
The Secretary of State is taking time out of his scheduled globe-trotting to deliver a speech to BC’s graduating class.
10. Janet Napolitano, Northeastern University
The Department of Homeland Security is one of the most controversial federal departments.
Which commencement speaker would you be most excited to hear?