Let's Commence Commencement Speaker Watch

As was evident last year, I kind of get giddy around the time colleges and law schools start picking their commencement speakers. I don’t know why. You remember graduation for the rest of your life and it’s interesting to me to see the people your school picks to give you a proper send-off.
And you never know when commencement will put you in the prime seat for history changing news. Remember, the Marshall Plan was unveiled at Harvard Commencement, 1947.
The highlight of last year’s law school commencement speaker circuit was Columbia’s choice of former California Governor Gray Davis. Obviously, I’m talking about “highlight” in terms of comedic value. I mean, any time you can invite a (failed) Governor to speak at your school, it’s an opportunity you have to take.
It’s a little bit early to start a full tally of law school commencement speakers. But one of the early entries is pretty exciting.
Check out who is coming to Brooklyn Law School this spring, after the jump.


Brooklyn Law School may only rank #61 according to U.S. News. But it scored a major get on the commencement circuit. From the BLS website:

New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg will be the speaker at Brooklyn Law School’s 109th commencement on Friday, June 4, 2010. At the ceremony, he will receive the Law School’s honorary degree of Doctor of Laws.

Hizoner himself! Toss a cap if you like, Brooklyn Law students. But don’t forget to hurl a resume in Bloomberg’s direction. As always, he’s one of the few people hiring.
A tipster notes the irony of Bloomberg speaking to any group of graduates:

Don’t get me wrong, I like the guy, and I even voted for his highness, I mean “hizonor”, in November, but I think its funny that the man who is cutting the payroll at so many would be hiring agencies is going to be telling us about our future and careers. Its like a teacher who sends you to detention and then proceeds to tell you about the carnival that’s coming to town for one day only.

It’s not like Brooklyn Law School has made it through the recession unfazed. The school’s faculty had to eat a pay freeze last year.
But who knows, Bloomberg is a multi-tasker. The mayor could be looking for a few good lawyers in the crowd while he talks. Pay attention kids, graduation day could double as a very important job interview.
Know about any other fun and exciting commencement speakers? Let us know at tips@abovethelaw.com.
Earlier: A Tale of Two Commencement Speakers
Open Thread: 2010 U.S. News Law School Rankings (50 – 75)
Nationwide Pay Freeze Watch: Welcome Brooklyn Law School Faculty

Sponsored