Abstract
This paper looks at Allyson Felix’s 2022 commencement speech at the University of Southern California using the neo-Aristotelian method. Felix is a USC graduate and Olympic track star. During this commencement speech she shared her personal story about finding her voice and standing up for what she believes in. She was a very successful track and field athlete with many sponsors. She found her voice especially when it came to speaking out about pregnancy discrimination in sports. She explained clearly and with much detail how her experience with Nike led her to push for policy changes that now help other female athletes. She also created her own company with the values and standards she expects for herself.. This analysis breaks down her speech by looking at how she built credibility, connected emotionally, and organized her message to inspire graduates. Felix’s message about using your voice, even when it ‘shakes’, knowing when to create change and when to seek it and living a life with purpose was powerful and personal. Her speech was not only meaningful for the students listening that day but also important in showing how one person’s actions can make a big difference.
Date
Spring 2025