He made jokes about Jesus walking on water and dropped the f-bomb at Knox College’s commencement in 2006. He told Princeton University’s graduating class of 2008 to let global warming take its course because “this planet can get very chilly, especially if you get seated by the door in a restaurant.”
Northwestern seniors can only wonder what Stephen Colbert will tell them at their commencement ceremony in June.
Colbert, an NU alumnus, comedian, writer, actor, host and executive producer of Comedy Central’s “The Colbert Report,” was announced as NU’s graduation speaker Monday afternoon in a University news release. He will also receive a special degree from NU at the ceremony.
University spokesman Al Cubbage said the administration is excited to have Colbert.
The search for a graduation speaker, led by NU’s commencement and honorary degree committees, began almost immediately after the 2010 commencement.
Shari Diamond, chair of the honorary degree committee, said she is thrilled Colbert will be the one receiving the special degree from NU when he delivers the graduation speech.
“It’s a pleasure to celebrate a hero of popular culture and a serious master of political satire who is one of our own,” she said.
After several rounds of nominations, the final decision was ultimately made by President Morton Schapiro, Cubbage said.
“The request went out from President Schapiro, and we’re fortunate that Colbert said yes,” Cubbage said. “He’s a distinguished alum, a high-visibility individual, and someone who I think students will like. I am confident he will give a great speech.”
Many seniors are thrilled with this year’s pick to speak at commencement, and underclassmen now envy the class of 2011.
“I am ecstatic,” said Claire Lew, Associated Student Government president and SESP senior. “I am a huge Colbert fan. I also think it sends a huge message for the graduating class that we get to hear from, if not the most famous, one of the most adored NU alums.”
Colbert graduated from NU’s School of Communication in 1986 with a degree in theater after transferring from Hampden-Sydney College in Virginia as a junior. While at NU, Colbert performed with a student improvisation group alongside actor David Schwimmer. He worked at 1835 Hinman as a cafeteria line worker – though he lived in Willard Residential College – and did data entry at the University Library.
After graduating, Colbert performed with Chicago’s Second City comedy club. Since then, he’s appeared in and written for several television shows including “The Dana Carvey Show,” “Saturday Night Live” and “The Daily Show with Jon Stewart,” and created his own shows, “Exit 57” and “Strangers with Candy.” His book “I Am America (And So Can You!)” topped the New York Times Best-Seller List for 24 weeks.
In 2007, Colbert ran a short campaign for the presidency, not as himself, but as his alter-ego, the Rev. Sir Dr. Stephen T. Colbert, D.F.A. It’s still unknown whether Colbert or his character will be making the commencement address.
“I’m interested to know if he’s going to be his persona or an actual alumnus trying to give us real advice,” said Anthony Valente, a Weinberg senior. “Either way, he’s awesome. He’s a great speaker who has a great personality.”
