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Erika Kirk to Deliver Hillsdale College Commencement Address

By: Charlotte Burke • March 7, 2026
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photo courtesy of Hillsdale Collegian/Gage Skidmore

(HILLSDALE) - Hillsdale College has announced that Erika Kirk will deliver the keynote address at its 174th commencement ceremony on May 9.

Kirk serves as CEO of Turning Point USA and assumed the role after the death of her husband, Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk, who was killed in September 2025 during a speaking appearance at Utah Valley University.

During the ceremony, both Erika Kirk and Charlie Kirk will receive honorary degrees from Hillsdale College.

College President Dr. Larry P. Arnn says the honor represents the highest recognition the college can give.

College officials say the Kirk family has had a longstanding connection with Hillsdale. Charlie Kirk frequently took Hillsdale's online courses and supported the school's mission before his death.