Bill Murray gives surprise commencement speech at Michigan college

Bill Murray surprised graduates at Siena Heights University’s May 9, 2025, commencement ceremony in Adrian, Michigan, delivering an impromptu speech after receiving an honorary doctorate. The actor, who arrived unannounced, joked about his past mischief but later addressed the school’s planned closure at the end of the 2025-2026 academic year, telling graduates they no longer needed the institution to define their identities. Murray’s sister, Sister Nancy Murray of the Adrian Dominican Sisters, also received an honorary degree for her contributions to education and ministry. The university, a Catholic institution founded in 1919 by the Adrian Dominican Sisters, announced its closure in June 2025. During his speech, Murray reflected on his own high school graduation antics, which led his former school to discourage his college from recommending him. He later urged graduates to focus on their own growth and relationships rather than institutional ties, saying, ‘You don’t need a building to be who you already have become.’ The actor closed by referencing his family’s motto, quoting his late mother’s words: ‘Carry on and be brave.’ He also humorously pledged to defend the graduates if any post-ceremony conflicts arose, declaring, ‘I’m fighting as a Saint. I’m on your side.’ A video of the ceremony, posted on YouTube by Siena Heights University, captures Murray’s remarks around the one-hour, 45-minute mark. The event marked the final honorary degree recipients before the school’s closure.