In years past, many colleges and universities have posted online the speeches that were given at their commencement ceremonies.

Remarkably, many colleges and universities have done so again this year, even though they have held virtual online commencements. This year’s commencement addresses look different from those of past years. You won’t hear the cheers or laughter of the crowd. Not a single speaker’s hat gets blown off by a sudden gust of wind. But because most of this year’s speeches have been recorded close-up with computer video, they have an intimacy and a directness that can be quite affecting. Read more