Former U.S. Poet Laureate Rita Dove Speaks at University of Virginia Commencement

There is no question that the University of Virginia is one of the most prestigious institutions in the U.S.  This year's commencement speaker at UVA matched the school's lofty status. 

Former U.S. Poet Laureate Rita Dove gave the commencement address on Saturday.  She spoke about embracing the uncertainty of the future. 

UVA awarded 3,000 degrees at the ceremony.  Despite the rain on the campus' iconic Lawn, the importance of the moment for all graduates and their families was felt. 

The university holds a special place in Dove's heart.  She currently resides in Charlottesville and serves as the Commonwealth Professor of English. 

From 1993-95, Dove was the U.S. Poet Laureate.  During the Library of Congress' bicentennial year in 1999, she was named a special consultant for poetry. 

Dove was also the Poet Laureate of Virginia from 2004-2006.  All of these accolades followed her 1987 Pulitzer Prize for poetry win while she was a creative writing professor at Arizona State. 

To inquire about Rita Dove's speaking fee and appearance cost, contact the agents at NOPACTalent by calling us at 888-550-6672 or by Starting Your Booking Request Now.

Rita Dove Delivers the 2016 Virginia Commencement Address: