Sara Bareilles, the celebrated singer-songwriter known for her empowering anthem “Brave”, is set to return to her roots as she delivers this year’s commencement address at her alma mater, UCLA. The university made an exciting announcement on Tuesday, April 22, revealing that the Grammy-winning artist will serve as the keynote speaker during the 2025 UCLA graduation ceremonies, scheduled for June 13 at the iconic Pauley Pavilion.
In her heartfelt statement, Bareilles expressed, “My time at UCLA held some of the most treasured years of my life. In many ways, it still shapes the person I have become and am still becoming.” She emphasized the honor she feels in participating in this pivotal moment of transition for all graduates, celebrating the immense hard work, creativity, dedication, and resilience that have led them to this remarkable day of achievement.
Bareilles, a proud Northern California native, completed her bachelor’s degree in communication in 2003 at UCLA. During her undergraduate years, she actively participated in the campus’ Awaken A Cappella group and showcased her talent as a solo performer in the university’s annual Spring Sing competition, where she triumphed in both 2000 and 2003, earning her recognition as a talented artist within the UCLA community.
For the commencement event, Bareilles will join fellow speakers, including Chancellor Julio Frenk, during the three ceremonies scheduled for 11 a.m., 3 p.m., and 7 p.m. on that memorable day, sharing the stage with the talented students of the class of 2025 and inspiring them as they embark on their new journeys.
“Sara Bareilles is an extraordinary artist and storyteller,” stated Miguel García-Garibay, senior dean of the UCLA College and dean of physical sciences. He expressed the university’s excitement in welcoming her back to UCLA for this year’s commencement. “Her journey highlights the importance of creativity and perseverance — messages that are sure to resonate with graduates as they step confidently into the next chapter of their lives.”
Aside from her accomplishments as a musician, Bareilles has made significant contributions to the world of theatre. She composed the music and lyrics for the acclaimed Broadway hit Waitress and recently starred in the 2022 revival of Into the Woods, a classic musical by Stephen Sondheim. Additionally, she was involved in the original score for the 2016 production of SpongeBob SquarePants: The Broadway Musical. After finishing her role as Dawn Solano in the beloved sitcom Girls5Eva, Bareilles is currently engaged in an exciting project: a musical adaptation of Meg Wolitzer’s 2013 coming-of-age novel The Interestings, collaborating with playwright Sara Ruhl to create the music and lyrics.
