Is this what dreams are made of? For Disney fans, it might be.
In a March 18 Instagram post, Northeastern announced Hilary Duff, the star of “Lizzie McGuire,” will serve as the 2026 undergraduate commencement speaker. Duff will address the 2026 graduating class April 29 in Fenway Park.
Best known for her roles on Disney Channel shows and movies like “Lizzie McGuire” and “A Cinderella Story,” Duff quickly became a Disney icon. Many students in this year’s graduating class grew up watching Duff, making her a particularly special choice for commencement speaker.
“It’s kind of like she grew up with us and now she’s going to be with us for such a big moment,” said Tanya Sawhney, a fourth-year economics and international business combined major. “It’s so full circle.”
After her Disney days, Duff went on to pursue roles in several acclaimed shows, including “Gossip Girl” and “Younger.”
“I had someone I had never heard of for my high school [graduation] speaker, so just having such a household name like Hilary is so exciting, and I can’t wait,” said Julia Prescott, a fourth-year business administration and psychology combined major.
Duff is also known for her music, most notably her song “This Is What Dreams Are Made Of,” which she sings at the end of “The Lizzie McGuire Movie.” After a decade-long break, Duff released her new album “luck… or something” Feb. 20. Some soon-to-be-graduates have their fingers crossed Duff will embrace her musical roots and perform during the commencement ceremony.
“I hope she sings,” Sawhney said.
In an announcement published by Northeastern Global News, or NGN, President Joseph E. Aoun emphasized Duff’s legendary status and versatility.
“Hilary Duff is an icon whose artistry spans the worlds of music, acting and philanthropy,” Aoun told NGN. “She has a remarkable ability to evolve, innovate and lead across creative fields. Her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to reinvention embody the kind of agility and vision Northeastern graduates possess.”
Previous commencement speakers include Atlantic Records CEO and Northeastern alum Elliot Grainge, trailblazing astronaut and deputy administrator for NASA Pam Melroy and entrepreneur and minted. founder Mariam Naficy.
