An important part of the annual Senior Banquet and Commencement Ceremony are the speeches delivered by members of the graduating class. By having students speak, it acknowledges the centrality of students in the life of the University. Typically, the speeches include a compelling story that incorporates their Chowan experience, a story that connects their story to family, friends, professors, coaches, and staff and how these connections changed, motivated, inspired, and/or touched them. The speeches also inspire, encourage, and reflect the vision and hopes of their fellow graduates. 

The 2024 Commencement Speakers are: 

Dauquann Damarrie Capers | Business, Jacksonville, NC

Patrick Kevin Krack | MA, Organizational Leadership, Nottingham, MD

Erica Elizabeth Mock | History, Diamond, OH

Colin Edward-Benjamin Riddick | Exercise Science, Elizabeth City, NC

Kashara Janae Simpson | Exercise Science, Rolesville, NC

The 2024 Senior Banquet Speakers are: 

Malachi Jar’Quezs Cobb | Music, Washington, NC

Syler Aaron Davies | Integrative Studies, Willmington, NC

Manuela Sofia Jimenez | Mathematics, Floridablanca, OT

Olivia Ann Wheeler | Elementary Education (K-6), Seaboard, NC

Congratulations – your achievements have not gone unnoticed, and we look forward to seeing you represent Chowan with pride at our 2024 Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 4th, 2024.