Actor and singer Elizabeth Gillies has been named keynote speaker for Emory’s 2026 Class Day Crossover on Thursday, May 7.
The evening’s events celebrate students receiving bachelor’s degrees from Emory College of Arts and Sciences, Goizueta Business School, the Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing and Emory School of Medicine’s Medical Imaging Program. Except for during the Candlelight Crossover, attendance is limited to members of the Class of 2026. Registration is encouraged.
The celebration kicks off at 6 p.m. at Dobbs Common Table in Cox Hall, where graduating students are invited to check in before enjoying a meal together at a senior reception. They will also have the opportunity to make a philanthropic donation to the university through the Blue Tassel Campaign, directly supporting current students and creating opportunities for those who follow. Students who give $5 or more will receive a blue tassel symbolizing their investment in the future of the university community. Doors open for check-in at 5:30.
Elizabeth Gillies, the 2026 Class Day Crossover keynote speaker, is an actress, singer and director.
Image provided.
As dusk settles across campus, candles are handed to seniors, and they file out of the Class Day Program. So begins Candlelight Crossover, a beloved tradition. Graduating students will process from the Emory Student Center to the Quad, symbolically “crossing over” from life as a student to that as an alum. Students will be welcomed into their lifelong Emory community as they are greeted by alumni, faculty, staff and community supporters in the procession.
All Emory alumni, faculty and staff in the community are encouraged to take part. Participants in the Alumni and Community Celebration can begin gathering on the Quad at 7 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to sport their Emory gear and bring signs celebrating the seniors. After enjoying light food and drink, those assembled will line the path from Asbury Circle to the Quad to prepare for cheering on the seniors during the Candlelight Crossover. Candles will be provided. Registration is encouraged.
Once students of the Class of 2026 reach the Quad, the volume of the festivities gets turned up for the Senior Class Party. Students are invited to enjoy refreshments (including alcohol for those 21 and over), DJs and opportunities for photos with colorful backgrounds and props.
A speaker with ‘a strong connection’
Gillies is an actress, singer and director known for playing Jade West in the Nickelodeon series “Victorious” and Fallon Carrington in the WB reboot of the 1980s drama “Dynasty,” which was largely set and filmed in Atlanta.
A few of her TV credits include “The Hunting Party,” “The Orville,” “White Collar,” “Family Guy” and the FX series “Sex&Drugs&Rock&Roll.” On the film side, Gillies can be seen in “Vacation,” “Arizona,” “Animal,” “Catwoman: Hunted” and “Spread,” which she also produced. She returned to her Broadway roots last year, starring in the acclaimed off-Broadway revival of “Little Shop of Horrors,” as Audrey.
In addition to acting, Gillies performs regular concerts to sold-out audiences across the country. She also has two records out with longtime friend and collaborator, Seth MacFarlane.
Many students feel like they grew up with Gillies, watching her on the teen comedy “Victorious,” says Emma Bernstein, a senior biology major. Each year, a group of graduating students choose the Class Day program speaker, and Bernstein served on this year’s selection committee.
“We wanted someone with that recognition factor,” says Bernstein, “and people feel a strong connection to her because of that show.”
Gillies has also built connections using her social media platform, where she’s shared insights from her battles with anxiety, adds Bernstein.
“A lot of people struggle with mental health,” Bernstein says, adding that those challenges can feel especially pronounced during a time of transition like graduation. “So, it’s great that she’s so open, and we’re looking forward to some positive words of affirmation.”
Previous speakers include Karan Brar, Kal Penn, Scott Kelly, Chelsea Handler, Adam Richman, Kenneth Cole, Mia Farrow, Peyton Manning, Ben & Jerry, Bill Nye and Chipper Jones.
Awards shine a light on service
Awards presented at the Class Day Crossover program recognize those who have made a remarkable impact on the Emory community.
The Boisfeuillet Jones Medals honor students selected for their good citizenship, outstanding leadership, devoted service to Emory and the community, academic performance and potential to become a “change agent” in their chosen profession and society at large.
The senior class presents the Brit Katz Senior Appreciation Award to an administrator or staff member who has served as a role model and friend to the Class of 2026. The award honors its recipient for participation in the Emory community that goes beyond professional duty.