Eric Church to Deliver Inspiring Commencement Address at UNC Chapel Hill's 2026 Graduation Ceremony
UNC Chapel Hill has announced that Eric Church will be the commencement speaker at the 2026 spring graduation ceremony on May 9 at Kenan Stadium. Church expressed his gratitude for the honor, highlighting his deep connection to the university as a proud Tar Heel. Chancellor Lee H. Roberts commended Church's North Carolina roots and his support for the university and the state, particularly his efforts in helping rebuild western North Carolina after Hurricane Helene.
Hailing from Granite Falls, NC, Church began his music career in 2006 with the album "Sinners Like Me." His breakthrough came in 2011 with the album "Chief," which topped the Billboard charts and earned him major accolades. In 2025, he received the Academy of Country Music's Icon award for his contributions to the genre.
Church's dedication to UNC sports is evident, as he once chose to watch a basketball game over a concert and even sat with Michael Jordan at a football game. Following Hurricane Helene's impact on North Carolina, Church organized a benefit concert called Concert for Carolina with Luke Combs, raising $24.5 million to support hurricane relief efforts. His philanthropic efforts through Chief Cares have also been recognized, with Time magazine including him on their Philanthropy 100 list for his contributions to the community.
The graduation ceremony featuring Eric Church as the speaker will commence at 7 p.m. on May 9, 2026, at Kenan Stadium. Church joins a prestigious list of past speakers at UNC Chapel Hill, including Mia Hamm, Madeleine Albright, and Dr. Anthony Fauci, who have addressed graduates at the iconic stadium.