With the spring 2023 commencement ceremony just two months away, Utah Valley University announced that author Brandon Sanderson will be the guest speaker.

“We are thrilled Brandon Sanderson accepted our invitation to speak at UVU’s 2023 commencement ceremony,” UVU president Astrid S. Tuminez said in a press release. “As an internationally renowned writer, he is a tremendous example of someone who has pursued his dreams with passion and optimism. We look forward to experiencing his magical storytelling skills, with sage career and life-success advice, as we celebrate our graduates’ hard work and accomplishments.” 

Sanderson is a Utah County resident, Brigham Young University alumnus and part-time lecturer at BYU in addition to writing a host of New York Times bestselling science fiction and fantasy novels.

Sanderson has published 73 novels, short stories and graphic novels across six series, and individual works, in 35 different languages. His most well-known novels include “The Stormlight Archive” series, “The Wheel of Time” series and the “Mistborn” series. 

Originally from Nebraska, Sanderson was inspired to write when he was introduced to the science-fiction/fantasy genre by one of his middle school teachers. 

He later came to BYU to gain his undergraduate degree in English and his graduate degree in Creative Writing, working as a hotel clerk on the night shift so he could work on his novels when business was slow. Sanderson wrote seven books during his time in school, which were eventually published. 

Sanderson will succeed Mary C. Daly, president and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco, who spoke at last year’s commencement. At the ceremony, four individuals will be given honorary degrees, including Sanderson, who will take home an honorary Ph.D. in Humane Letters.

The spring commencement will be held on May 4 and starts at 6:30 p.m. at the UCCU Center in Orem. Eight convocation ceremonies will be held earlier in the day.

Newsletter