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Roger Federer Serves Up the 2024 Commencement Address

Plus Remembering Our Favorite Past Commencement Speakers

Jun 10, 2024

3 minute read

Courtney Hall

On Sunday, June 9, 2024, Dartmouth hosted Commencement 2024. Despite the rainy weather, thousands gathered on the Green to celebrate this year's graduates and welcome the degree recipients as the newest members of our alumni community. 

The Commencement address was given by world-renowned tennis superstar Roger Federer. In his speech, he shared his thoughts on effort and achievement using examples from his tennis career. He also talked about his passion for philanthropy and shared a few details from his own philanthropic endeavors, including his work providing educational support and opportunities for students in Sub-Saharan Africa. 

Finally, Roger gave the Class some parting words of advice: 

Whatever game you choose, give it your best. Go for your shots. Play free. Try everything.
- Roger Federer
    Former Professional Tennis Player and Philanthropist

A Group of Distinguished Alumni Gathered for Commencement

Dartmouth’s Commencement exercises included numerous distinguished and celebrity alumni. Among the notable trustee participants were TV powerhouse Shonda Rhimes ’91, CNN broadcasting professional Jake Tapper ’91, actor Connie Britton ’89, and former Principal Deputy Solicitor General of the United States Neal Katyal ’91. Several board members took a moment to "Give a Rouse" for each other's accomplishments, and included commencement speaker and professional tennis great Roger Federer in a light-hearted Instagram reel.

Remembering Some of Our Favorite Past Commencement Speakers

Dartmouth has hosted many distinguished guests as past Commencement speakers. We've put together a few of our favorite speakers and their sage words of wisdom in honor of our newest alumni.