Sarah Jessica Parker Will Headline Northwestern’s 2026 Commencement — 5 Surprises She Might Reveal

Actor, producer, and entrepreneur Sarah Jessica Parker will deliver Northwestern University’s 168th Commencement address to the Class of 2026 on June 14 at Chicago’s United Center, where she will also receive an honorary Doctor of Arts degree. Interim President Henry S. Bienen called Parker “a strong supporter of the arts and humanities,” praising her multidisciplinary career that spans Broadway, television, film, publishing, and philanthropy. In a statement, Parker said she is “truly honored” to celebrate graduates whose “hard work, dedication and commitment to one another deserve real recognition.” Why this matters • Northwestern’s commencement speakers routinely shape national headlines, and Parker’s selection links the university to one of pop culture’s most enduring icons. • The appearance comes just weeks after Parker accepted the 2026 Carol Burnett Award from the Golden Globes, underscoring her continued influence in television and the arts. Career highlights that resonate with graduates • Emmy-, Golden Globe- and SAG-winning portrayal of Carrie Bradshaw in “Sex and the City” and its sequel series “And Just Like That.” • Recent box-office success with “Hocus Pocus 2.” • Broadway triumph in the record-breaking revival of “Plaza Suite” opposite husband Matthew Broderick. • Executive producer credits through Pretty Matches Productions and literary champion via her SJP Lit imprint. Campus and social buzz Within hours of the announcement, the hashtag #SJPxNU trended regionally as students and alumni shared excitement over Parker’s fashion legacy and advocacy for the arts. Ticket demand for the 20,000-seat United Center ceremony is expected to surge, mirroring past high-profile commencements. What’s next Northwestern will release full honorary-degree recipient lists in the coming days, while Parker is slated to wrap filming on season four of “And Just Like That” this spring, positioning her speech as a potential preview of forthcoming creative projects. Search interest for “Sarah Jessica Parker Northwestern commencement,” “SJP honorary degree,” and “Class of 2026 speaker” is rising rapidly, indicating strong reader appetite for updates on ceremony details, ticketing, and Parker’s message to graduates.