Clinton to speak in Middlebury
Toolbox
By LISA RATHKE The Associated Press - Published: May 26, 2007
MONTPELIER — He made more than $9 million in speaking engagements last year. But when former President Bill Clinton takes to the dais to deliver the commencement speech at Middlebury College on Sunday, he won't make a penny for it.
Like most colleges and universities, Middlebury does not pay its commencement speakers. And the alumnus and a board member who helped land Clinton are not paying a speaker fee, said John Emerson, secretary of Middlebury College.
Middlebury "has a longstanding policy that we do not give payments for our commencement speakers," Emerson said.
It's not Clinton's first commencement address this spring, or his last.
He and former President Bush spoke at the University of New Hampshire's graduation last weekend. Clinton addressed University of Michigan graduates last month, and will speak at Knox College, Ohio State University and the Harvard Class Day.
Since leaving the White House in 2001, the former president has netted nearly $40 million in speaking fees, the Washington Post reported recently. He's earned $150,000 for appearances before landlord groups, biotechnology companies and food distributors, according to the Post.
But it's rare for a commencement speaker to receive a fee for speaking, said Roland King, a spokesman for the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities.
"In most cases, even somebody who is a really high-priced speaker will do it gratis, just because the public service nature of colleges and universities," he said.
Speakers often receive honorary degrees, and Clinton will — a doctor of humane letters.
"Frequently, the speaker is also getting an honorary degree, so no money is changing hands in that regard," said Susan Chilcott, spokeswoman for the American Association of State Colleges and Universities.
Clinton's office did not immediately return a call Friday about the Middlebury appearance.
Only the 7,500 ticket holders — 600 graduates, their families, Middlebury staff and alumni — will get to hear Clinton speak in person. Others can watch via the college's live Web cast.
The event will be held outside, rain or shine.
"His dedication to a career in public service and the philanthropic work he has done since leaving public office are an inspiration to college students seeking ways to change and improve both our country and our world," said Middlebury President Ronald Liebowitz.
33