Commencement

Keynote Speaker

Kirk Franklin

Best known for revolutionizing contemporary gospel music—seamlessly blending soul-stirring gospel with rhythm and blues, hip-hop and pop—Kirk Franklin’s voice and vision have transcended generations and genres for over 30 years. With a resume that reads like a hall-of-fame playlist—including his latest Grammy-winning single, “All Things” from the acclaimed album Father’s Day—Franklin is more than a musical icon; he’s a cultural architect.

Now, the same voice that brought us “Stomp,” “Revolution,” and “I Smile” is bringing his signature blend of gospel, hip-hop and R&B to Viking territory for the class of 2025 as they walk the stage with tassels turned and futures focused—this time not with music but with a message.

Franklin‘s record speaks for itself. From his SiriusXM channel Kirk Franklin’s Praise to headlining the star-studded Reunion Tour 2.0, to starring in TV and film projects like BET’s Kingdom Business and Lifetime’s Kirk Franklin’s A Gospel Christmas, to becoming the first artist to hit 100 weeks atop Billboard’s Gospel Songwriters chart—his influence goes beyond music, redefining the gospel industry. He has embodied pushing past limits, a fitting message for graduates to enter a world ready for bold voices and fearless leaders.

Beyond the stage, Franklin champions the next generation through initiatives like Camp Lotus and advocates for global causes through partnerships with organizations such as Compassion International and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Whether mentoring rising musicians or collaborating with superstars like Mariah Carey, Justin Timberlake and Chance the Rapper, Franklin uses every platform to uplift and inspire.