Senior Colloquium

The Senior Colloquium is a Wake Forest tradition. When Wake Forest Institute was founded in 1834 (with a class of just 16 young men!), all seniors were expected to speak at graduation. In the early 1880's, as student enrollment grew, ten students were selected as orators; all others wrote a thesis. In 1899, the number of speakers was reduced to eight; in 1909, to six; and in 1924, to four. In 1973, the Dean of the College reduced the number to three speakers. 

At the Colloquium, 10 students will be narrowed down to 3 and top winner.  Today, all three finalists will be recognized at the Honors and Awards Ceremony in the spring where the top orator will present their oration.