Academy Award-winning actress and Deaf advocate Marlee Matlin delivered the commencement address to the University of Oregon on Monday [1].
Matlin's appearance as the keynote speaker highlights the intersection of artistic achievement and disability advocacy within higher education. Her selection serves as a focal point for the university's commitment to accessibility and representation for the Deaf community [2].
The event marked the 149th commencement ceremony for the institution [3]. Matlin spoke to a graduating class of 5,513 students [4] in Eugene, Oregon [5]. The university said it selected Matlin for the role based on her professional success in cinema and her lifelong work as an advocate for the Deaf community [2].
During her address, Matlin focused on the relationship between ambition and persistence. She said, "Courage plus dreams equals success" [3]. The message encouraged the Class of 2026 to leverage their personal aspirations while maintaining the bravery required to overcome systemic or personal obstacles.
Matlin is recognized globally for her contributions to the arts and her efforts to increase visibility for Deaf individuals in mainstream media [2]. Her address to the thousands of graduates [3] emphasized that success is not merely a result of talent but a combination of vision and fortitude.
The ceremony concluded with the recognition of the 5,513 graduates [4] as they transitioned from the university to their professional careers. The event was broadcast via C-SPAN, providing a public record of the address and the university's graduation proceedings [1].
“Courage plus dreams equals success”
The selection of Marlee Matlin as a commencement speaker reflects a broader trend in academic institutions prioritizing speakers who embody both professional excellence and social advocacy. By featuring a prominent Deaf leader, the University of Oregon signals a commitment to inclusive excellence and the visibility of disability rights to its graduating class.
