TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – May 2, 2025 — In a moment that will be etched into the University of Alabama’s storied history, former President Donald J. Trump took center stage at Coleman Coliseum on Thursday night to deliver the keynote speech for the university’s spring commencement ceremony. The address marked the first time a U.S. president, past or present, has spoken at a University of Alabama graduation.
Greeted with a standing ovation and chants of “USA! USA!” by a crowd of more than 15,000 graduates, faculty, family members, and supporters, Trump’s presence electrified the Tuscaloosa venue. While the announcement of his participation sparked both excitement and protest in the weeks leading up to the event, Thursday night’s atmosphere leaned celebratory, with many in attendance hailing the moment as historic.
“Today we celebrate your incredible achievement,” Trump said, opening his remarks. “And we do so in the heart of a truly great American institution, in a state that knows what pride, perseverance, and patriotism really mean. Congratulations to the Class of 2025!”
The former president, who is again a leading figure in the 2024 Republican primary aftermath and a polarizing political figure nationwide, largely set aside partisan rhetoric in favor of a patriotic, inspirational message focused on perseverance, grit, and what he called “the spirit of the American Dream.”
“You are the future leaders of this country,” Trump said. “Whether you go into business, science, sports, education, or public service, remember that greatness is achieved not by following the crowd but by standing firm in your convictions. You will face adversity—everyone does. But it is how you respond to it that will define you.”
The speech, which lasted just under 40 minutes, drew frequent applause from the audience, particularly when Trump praised the university’s athletic legacy and referenced key Alabama traditions. “This is the home of champions, the Crimson Tide, and some of the greatest student-athletes America has ever seen,” he said. “You don’t just play to win here—you expect to win. That’s a mindset every graduate should take with them.”
Trump also made a point to honor the state of Alabama and its deep-rooted culture of faith, family, and patriotism.
“Alabama is a place where the flag still matters, where people pray before games, and where tradition is not just remembered—it’s revered,” he declared. “That spirit is what makes America strong. Never lose it.”
The former president’s message resonated with many in attendance, particularly those who view his presence as validation of Alabama’s role in national politics and culture.
“Having President Trump here means a lot,” said Maddie Thornton, a graduating senior in political science. “Whether you agree with his politics or not, it’s incredible to know that our university was chosen for a moment like this. It adds weight to the ceremony.”
The University of Alabama administration remained officially neutral in the weeks leading up to the event but acknowledged the significance of the invitation. President Dr. Stuart Bell introduced Trump briefly before the address, calling the event “a unique and momentous occasion in the history of our institution.”
“This is a celebration of achievement and a reflection on the journey our students have taken to get here,” Bell said. “It is an honor to have a speaker who has played such a prominent role in recent American history.”
Sources close to the university said the decision to invite Trump was made earlier this year and kept under wraps for months due to security planning. The Secret Service and university police maintained a visible presence during the event, but no major incidents were reported.
While many students and families welcomed the address, it was not without controversy. A group of roughly 300 students and faculty held a peaceful protest on the Quad earlier in the day, carrying signs that read “Graduation, Not a Rally” and “Our Voices Matter.”
“Commencement should be about the graduates, not a political figure,” said Sarah King, a senior in the College of Education who participated in the protest. “We’re proud of our accomplishments, and we just wanted a ceremony that reflected the entire student body.”
Despite the protest, university officials emphasized that graduates were not required to attend the speech and that separate viewing options were available. According to a UA spokesperson, over 90% of eligible graduates still chose to walk the stage in Coleman Coliseum.
Trump’s appearance drew national media coverage and social media reaction, with clips of his address trending across various platforms. Conservative commentators praised the speech as “presidential” and “uplifting,” while critics questioned the university’s decision to invite a figure still facing multiple legal challenges.
However, in Tuscaloosa, the focus remained largely on the graduates and the excitement of the day.
“It’s not every day that a former U.S. president speaks at your graduation,” said Michael Hall, a communications major. “Politics aside, it made the whole thing feel even more important.”
Others saw the event as emblematic of Alabama’s broader identity.
“This was a uniquely Alabama moment,” said Jordan Harris, an alum and former student government leader. “Our state doesn’t shy away from big moments or bold decisions, and tonight proved that.”
In his closing remarks, Trump challenged the graduates to carry the lessons learned at Alabama into the broader world.
“Go out there and build something. Be bold. Defend your values. Make your families proud,” he said. “And never forget where you came from. Because the University of Alabama isn’t just your past—it’s your foundation for a future of greatness.”
He concluded with a nod to the university’s rallying cry: “Roll Tide!”
As Trump exited the stage to another round of applause and patriotic music, many families lingered in the stands, taking photos, waving flags, and savoring the memory of a graduation unlike any in Crimson Tide history.
Due to the high-profile nature of the speaker, security at the ceremony was tight but efficient. Metal detectors were placed at all entrances, and guests were encouraged to arrive early. The Secret Service coordinated with campus police, Tuscaloosa law enforcement, and Alabama state troopers.
Despite traffic delays and heightened restrictions on bag sizes, attendees said the overall experience was smooth.
“Everyone was respectful, and it felt very organized,” said Shannon Taylor, who flew in from Oregon to see her niece graduate. “I’ve never seen a commencement this large or this secure, but it was worth it.”
With Thursday’s event, the University of Alabama added a new chapter to its long legacy of cultural, athletic, and political significance. For many, Trump’s visit will remain a defining memory of their college experience.
“It’s something I’ll tell my kids one day,” said Marcus Daniels, a business graduate. “That the President of the United States came to speak at my graduation—that’s something you don’t forget.”
Though the ceremony marked the end of an academic journey for thousands of students, it also signaled Alabama’s continued prominence on the national stage. Whether in politics, sports, or education, the university has long positioned itself at the crossroads of tradition and change.
As the Class of 2025 tosses their caps into the air, they leave Coleman Coliseum not only as graduates but as witnesses to a moment that blended American history with Alabama pride—a commencement that will be talked about for years to come.
