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Syracuse University has announced that Mike Tirico, an esteemed NBC Sports broadcaster and Syracuse alumnus, will deliver the commencement address for the Class of 2026 on Sunday, May 10. The ceremony will take place at the JMA Wireless Dome, starting at 9:30 a.m.
Tirico, who graduated from Syracuse University in 1988 with a dual degree in political science and broadcast journalism, has become a prominent figure in sports broadcasting. He began his career at WAER-FM, Syracuse University's public radio station, before joining WTVH-TV in Syracuse as a sports director. Over his career, Tirico has covered major events such as the Olympics and the Super Bowl, and he is currently the play-by-play voice for NBC's 'Sunday Night Football'.
In February 2026, Tirico made history by becoming the first U.S. broadcaster to call the Super Bowl and host a Winter Olympics in the same year. This achievement capped a distinguished career spanning over three decades. Chancellor Kent Syverud praised Tirico as "the definition of an Orange success story," highlighting his deep commitment to the university.
Tirico's connection to Syracuse University remains strong. He was elected to the Board of Trustees in 2016 and became vice chair in 2025. He has also served on several committees, including those for the Newhouse School and the Falk College of Sport. In addition to his professional accomplishments, Tirico and his wife, Deborah Gibaratz Tirico, have established the Mike Tirico Scholarship Endowment and supported various university initiatives.
Reflecting on his upcoming role as commencement speaker, Tirico expressed his gratitude, stating, "There is no place that has meant more to me than Syracuse University." He looks forward to welcoming the new graduates into the "Forever Orange" family.