One hundred years ago, commencement for the class of 1911 was held on June 14th at the Troy Savings Bank Music Hall. It was a momentous occasion. The first degrees for electrical and mechanical engineering were awarded that day, nine EE and three ME degrees. The graduates and their guests were honored by the presence of Rear Admiral Robert E. Peary, who delivered the commencement address.

Commencement is right around the corner, and the anticipation is building!  During the ceremony, cameras will inevitably become focused on the commencement speaker.  In a long-held tradition, a person of honor will step up to the podium and address the graduates.  To mark the occasion of commencement, I've brought together some selected images of past RPI commencement speakers.  If you are interested in consulting a full list of speakers, look here.