David Axelrod, a noted political analyst and former senior advisor to President Barack Obama, will deliver the address at the University of Chicago’s 2025 Class Day ceremony on June 6. Axelrod, who graduated from UChicago in 1976 and is the founding director of its Institute of Politics (IOP), will speak to graduates and their families as part of the College celebration that marks the beginning of UChicago's Convocation weekend.
Axelrod expressed his gratitude for being invited to speak at an institution that has significantly impacted his life. "It's a special honor to be invited to give the Class Day speech on the campus where I arrived a half-century ago and which has played an enormous and positive role in my life," he said. He intends to share insights from his own experiences that may benefit graduates facing today's unique challenges.
Originally from New York City, Axelrod was attracted not only by UChicago but also by Chicago's vibrant political scene. Reflecting on his early days as a student journalist, he noted how professors Morris Janowitz and Richard Taub influenced his understanding of politics. “I was fascinated by the dynamic political environment, and began working as a student journalist to understand and report on it,” Axelrod stated.
After completing his studies, Axelrod worked as a political reporter for local publications before establishing himself as a prominent political strategist through his consultancy firm, Axelrod & Associates. His career highlights include serving as chief strategist for Obama's presidential campaigns in 2008 and 2012.
In 2013, Axelrod returned to UChicago to establish the non-partisan Institute of Politics. The institute aims to nurture students' interest in politics by hosting diverse figures for discussions designed to encourage civil discourse. “When I finished my career in politics and government, I was determined to bring to the University the thing I most missed when I was a student: an extracurricular program...to engage in civil discourse with each other and with students,” he explained.
The IOP has organized over 1,000 events since its inception, promoting dialogue among students about various political issues. In addition to his role at UChicago, Axelrod is known for publishing a New York Times bestseller, providing commentary for CNN, and hosting “The Axe Files” podcast.
Axelrod joins other distinguished alumni who have addressed graduates during Class Day ceremonies at UChicago. This group includes Senator Andy Kim; journalist Rebecca Jarvis; columnist David Brooks; and cancer researcher Otis W. Brawley.
The upcoming Class Day ceremony will occur on June 6 at 2 p.m., preceded by a reception at noon on Bartlett Quadrangle for graduating students and their families. Further details can be found on UChicago’s Convocation website.