In May 2007, Jim Stephens delivered a controversial commencement address at the University of Alabama, challenging graduates to critically consider the U.S.'s involvement in the Iraq War and its global citizenship. His speech, which occurred during a time of significant military conflict, was met with mixed reactions, sparking dialogue and leading to the university's decision to forego traditional commencement speakers for years. In 2025, President Donald Trump is set to address the graduates, reigniting political tensions with planned protests and a significant petition against his appearance. The historical context of Stephens' speech and the current political climate highlight the enduring challenge of addressing contentious issues in celebratory settings. Despite the backlash, Stephens remains firm in his belief that commencement addresses should provoke thought about national and global responsibilities.

Jim Stephens, a former soldier and CEO, addressed the University of Alabama graduates in 2007, urging them to reflect on the U.S.'s role in global conflicts, particularly the Iraq War, amidst a backdrop of rising casualties.

His speech, which included references to both the Iraq War and a recent mass shooting at Virginia Tech, challenged the audience to consider the implications of their country's actions on the world stage, questioning whether such behavior aligns with being a virtuous society.

The speech received mixed reactions, with some graduates and attendees feeling that a commencement ceremony was not the appropriate venue for political discourse, while others engaged in dialogue prompted by his remarks.

Following Stephens' address, the University of Alabama avoided having traditional commencement speakers, instead opting to solely announce the graduates' names, a decision that some attribute to the controversy surrounding his speech.

In 2025, President Donald Trump is scheduled to speak at the university's graduation, drawing significant opposition from groups such as the NAACP and College Democrats, who plan to protest his presence with a counter-rally led by Beto O'Rourke.

The upcoming speech by Trump has reignited debates about the place of politics in commencement ceremonies, as evidenced by a 25,000-signature petition opposing his appearance, echoing the contentious atmosphere of Stephens' address.

Stephens, now 86, stands by his 2007 speech, emphasizing the importance of challenging graduates to think critically about citizenship and societal issues, while Daniel Maguire, a graduate from that year, acknowledges a shift in perspective, agreeing more with Stephens' views after years of reflection.