Maya Rudolph Gives Commencement Speech to Tulane University Graduates
Maya Rudolph was recently called on stage to deliver the commencement speech for this year’s Tulane University graduates and the moment was as funny as you would expect. The former Saturday Night Live comedian joked her way through the speech, but also took the time to share bits of genuine advice.
"It really is a true honor to be with all of you as you begin this new phase of your life,” she said, "as you embark on this exciting and challenging journey of being sober during the day."
Rudolph graduated from the University of California, Santa Cruz, but her father was a Tulane alum. She shared the story of telling her father about her SNL dreams and the advice she gleaned from her improvisation courses.
"Say ‘yes, and,’” Rudolph said. "Create your own destiny. Hold onto your old friends. Kiss your mama. Admit what your dreams are. Don't beat yourself up if you don't know what you're gonna do tomorrow, but work hard and don't be lazy. And put away your damn iPhone once in a while."
Rudolph also made well-known references to Oprah Winfrey’s obsession of giving gifts by doling out diplomas to everyone and ended out the grand moment with an over-the-top rendition of the National Anthem à la Beyoncé.
(Photo: Tulane University via Youtube)
