In 2011, Charles Wheelan returned to his alma mater at Dartmouth College to deliver the commencement speech. In his opening remarks, he promised the group of newly minted graduates that his would not be the typical speech, and went on to offer what he called “six things no commencement speaker has ever said.” His main point was that he wished that his six points had been given at his own commencement, back in 1988.
In my opinion, I believe that Wheelan's speech is insightful because it brings out the ultimate message about happiness which allows us to make the best choices leading to the best outcome, and reinforces correct life values through uses of equal distribution of emotional, ethical and logical appeals."
There are three main reasons why I have come to this conclusion with regard to the quality of Wheelan’s speech. First, he uses empathy well to gain the attention of his audience. Secondly, while he appeals to emotion, he is able to maintain a neutral tone, which brings the Dartmouth graduates into his thoughts, but keeps his thoughts and beliefs, rather than himself, as the focal point. And third, he provides an adequate amount of supplemental evidence to support his points; in fact, early in the speech, he notes that social scientists can prove, through data, the validity to his beliefs.
Speaking to Wheelan’s use of empathy, he does a good job to avoid being like one of the “other speakers,” which is one of his speaking goals. He is aware of the 20-year difference between himself and the graduates. With this in mind, he appeals to shared experiences (”as we sat where you are sitting”), on the Dartmouth campus and in their lives (i.e. – falling of Berlin Wall and 9/11). This helps him connect to the audience. In particular, his use of landmarks on the Dartmouth campus helps him gain credence as a speaker. In a sense, he is saying, “I am one of you.”
With these techniques, he gives the aura of sincerity, showing himself as someone the audience can trust. At one point he even corrects one of his earlier assertions that dropouts are more likely to be failures. By apologizing, he shows humility and a willingness to change, again earning points for empathy.
Finally, he makes his argument more convincing with disclosures of facts and statistics, which is a solid form of supporting evidence. He cites Harvard studies which support the notion that good human relations bring personal happiness. But, he also intersperses his factual evidence by adding a personal touch, such as telling the story of his close friend’s sudden death. With this example he urges his audience to begin working on their lives, because it is unpredictable. By adding his late friend’s story, the message to work on one’s life becomes more meaningful.
In conclusion, Wheelan’s speech was effective for the audience at Dartmouth. This speech would not have worked as well at Harvard or Princeton because Wheelan did not graduate from these schools. He empathizes with the Dartmouth students, and creates a personal connection. His emotional, ethical and logical appeals shape his speech, but he is unique by veering off the normal format. He shows trustworthiness with data from reliable sources and portrays real life situations for inspiration.
Works Cited
Wheelan, Charles. “2011 Class Day Speech at Dartmouth College.” Dartmouth College. Hanover, NH. 11 June 2011. Commencement Address.
