Actor Steve Carell Will Speak At Northwestern's Commencement Ceremony

EVANSTON, IL — Award-winning actor Steve Carell will address Northwestern University's class of 2025 at this year's commencement ceremony.

Along with speaking at the ceremony, Carell will receive an honorary degree of Doctor of Arts. Commencement will take place at the United Center in Chicago on June 15 at 10:30 a.m.

“Steve Carell is an absolute treasure, and I am thrilled he will be our commencement speaker,” said President Michael Schill. “Steve is such a versatile actor, who brings humor and humanity to every role, from ‘The Office’ to ‘The Morning Show’ and his recent work on Broadway. I cannot wait to hear him address our Class of 2025.”

Carell attended Denison University in Ohio, where he earned a bachelor's degree in history in 1984. His daughter, Annie Carell graduated from Northwestern in 2023, and his son Johnny is a member of the class of 2026.

“I’m thrilled to be speaking at Northwestern’s commencement this year,” Carell said. “My speech’s theme will be ‘The Importance of Lowering Expectations,’ which for these graduates should start with my speech.”