HILLSDALE, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Hillsdale College announced that Erika Kirk will deliver the school’s 2026 commencement address.

Kirk is the chief executive officer of Turning Point USA and the widow of the organization’s founder, Charlie Kirk. He was killed in September 2025 at a Turning Point USA speaking event in Utah. Erika Kirk was appointed CEO after her husband’s assassination.

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The Kirk’s connection to Hillsdale is strong. Charlie Kirk was one of the millions of people who took the college’s online courses on history, politics, economics, philosophy and religion. Those courses are designed for anyone to educate themselves on American history, not necessarily earn a degree.

Erika Kirk received a bachelor’s degree in political science and international relations from Arizona State University and a Juris Master in American legal studies from Liberty University.

“It is a great honor to be invited to speak at the Hillsdale College Graduation Ceremony on May 9,” Kirk said. “Charlie loved Hillsdale deeply and was often a grateful student of its online courses, learning from Dr. Larry Arnn and the remarkable faculty, who are so committed to truth and the pursuit of wisdom. Hillsdale represents something rare in our time — a steadfast devotion to faith, learning, and the principles that sustain a free nation. I am sincerely grateful for the invitation and look forward to being there with all of you. God bless you.”

Hillsdale’s commencement ceremony is scheduled for May 9 and will be closed to the public.