January 30, 2015
Dear Tulane Community:
Live jazz music, a second-line procession, confetti cannons, herald trumpets and more – Tulane commencements are known around the country for being unique celebrations of scholarly achievement.
This year we can add award-winning humor to the mix. Maya Rudolph, who has entertained millions through her appearances as a cast member of "Saturday Night Live" and in movies such as Bridesmaids, The Way Way Back and Away We Go, will deliver the keynote address at Commencement 2015.
Besides being one of the country's most popular comedic actresses, Maya has strong connections to Tulane. Her father Richard, a musician, songwriter and producer, is a Tulane alumnus. Richard co-wrote the 1975 No. 1 hit "Lovin' You" with Maya's mother, Minnie Riperton. The song's melody was originally created as a lullaby for Maya.
Richard plans to attend the ceremony, as will Maya's cousin, Sabrina Rudolph, who is a member of Tulane's 2015 graduating class.
We are thrilled to welcome the Rudolph family back to campus and look forward to Maya sharing a lot of good advice and humor with our graduates and their families.
