Do Commencement Speakers Get Paid?

Some universities have been paying their graduation speakers for at least 20 years, while others have started more recently. Rutgers first paid for a commencement speaker in 2011, when it spent $30,000 to bring author Toni Morrison.

Do commencement speakers get degrees?

Ordinarily, honorary degrees are awarded at Commencement in June. ... It has been the custom in recent years to award an honorary degree to the individual who gives the commencement speech and who is a person of distinction and renown.

How much do colleges pay speakers?

Most conferences pay their keynote speakers between $10,000 to $20,000. To secure a celebrity speaker from any arena, expect to pay nearly $50,000. Booking a speaker more than once can lower the cost. Partnering with other colleges or organizations could be helpful.