Best-selling Author to Deliver Oakton Commencement Address

Alexandra Robbins, author of multiple bestselling books about contemporary issues facing young adults, will speak at the Oakton High School graduation ceremony June 20.

Robbins’ most recent book, The Geeks Shall Inherit the Earth: Popularity, Quirk Theory, and Why Outsiders Thrive After High School, was released May 1 and has made the New York Times Bestsellers list. Opening to critical acclaim, the book aims to generate discussion about the often painful realities of high school, as Robbins' book explores how the unique characteristics which cause some teens to be rejected in high school often lead to success later in life. 

She has been interviewed about her book this month on The Today Show and NPR, and in The New York Times. For Geeks, Robbins interviewed thousands of students across the country, including a current Oakton High student.

Catherine Mahoney, Oakton’s senior class president — but not the OHS Geeks interviewee — expressed excitement on behalf of her fellow students: “We are delighted to have Ms. Robbins speak at our graduation, both because of the relevance of her work and because of her engaging speaking style. We couldn’t ask for a better commencement speaker.”

Robbins has also authored several previous books of particular relevance to young adults, including The Overachievers, Pledged, Secrets of the Tomb and Conquering Your Quarterlife Crisis.

Karen Mahoney contributed this report.