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Deerfield Commencement Address

By Elliot Ackerman

Elliot Ackerman delivers the 2026 Deerfield Academy commencement address from the podium before graduating students, faculty, and guests at Deerfield Academy in Deerfield, Massachusetts.

Elliot Ackerman at Deerfield Academy

Elliot Ackerman delivered the 2026 commencement address at Deerfield Academy on May 24, 2026.

In the speech, Ackerman reflects on the connection between Deerfield Academy and another institution that shaped his life, the United States Marine Corps. Using both as examples, he explores belonging, service, leadership, identity, and the transitions that define different stages of life.

Through stories, humor, and reflection, Ackerman encourages graduates to think carefully about the communities they join, the responsibilities they inherit, and the people they aspire to become.

The address speaks to graduates entering a new chapter while also offering a broader reflection on how formative communities shape individuals long after they leave them.

About Deerfield Academy

Deerfield Academy is an independent boarding school in Deerfield, Massachusetts. Learn more at deerfield.edu.

About Elliot Ackerman

Elliot Ackerman is a New York Times bestselling author, journalist, former Marine officer, and commentator on war, foreign policy, national security, leadership, and public life.

Explore more media appearances, essays, and books by Elliot Ackerman.

Elliot Ackerman Deerfield Academy commencement address 2026. Deerfield Academy Class of 2026 graduation speech. Commencement speaker Elliot Ackerman discusses leadership, service, citizenship, identity, responsibility, belonging, institutional culture, life transitions, and personal development. Topics include the United States Marine Corps, military service, higher purpose, public service, character, education, community, alumni networks, independent schools, boarding schools, leadership development, and the responsibilities associated with entering adulthood. This commencement address was delivered at Deerfield Academy in Deerfield, Massachusetts on May 24, 2026. Elliot Ackerman is a New York Times bestselling author, journalist, former Marine officer, contributor to The Free Press, and CBS News contributor. Related topics include leadership lessons, graduation speeches, commencement addresses, military leadership, civic responsibility, service before self, personal growth, education, public intellectuals, foreign policy, national security, and public speaking.