Updated May 19
We deeply regret that this moment of special celebration was violated for our students, their families, and other members of our community by this speaker, a former student who earned her degree in December of 2024. The speaker’s conduct during Saturday’s Columbian College of Arts and Sciences Celebration event was inappropriate and dishonest: the speaker submitted and recited in rehearsal very different remarks than those she delivered at the ceremony. The speaker has been barred from all GW’s campuses and sponsored events elsewhere.
We are conducting a thorough review of the incident, and will take appropriate accountability actions.
==
Statement issued on May 17
We are aware of an incident that occurred today at one of GW’s Columbian College of Arts and Sciences school ceremonies. The student speaker chose to stray from their prepared remarks, which were materially different when previously reviewed by school leadership. We are also aware that some students unfurled signs brought in under their graduation gowns, despite clear guidance to the contrary. The students’ remarks and signs do not reflect the views of the university.
We apologize to the graduates and families in attendance that their time of special celebration was disrupted. We are investigating this matter immediately, including whether event protocols were followed properly and whether the students’ actions violated the Code of Conduct.