2026 Commencement National Anthem Singer Application

Thank you for your interest in being the 2026 Commencement National Anthem Singer! Your application will be reviewed for completeness, neatness, thorough and thoughtful answers to questions, and fulfillment of the application guidelines.

Please direct questions to Stephanie Kendall, Administrative Assistant to the Vice President for Student Services at skendall@whatcom.edu. 

To serve as the 2026 National Anthem Singer, students must:

• Be currently enrolled at Whatcom Community College or eligible to participate in the 2026 Commencement Ceremony (preference will be given to graduating students)
• Be comfortable singing in front of a large audience
• Attend and fully participate in all commencement activities  
• Be in good academic standing
• Be familiar with The Star-Spangled Banner musical selection 
• Possess performance ability including poise, pitch, and clarity

Selection Process:

• The National Anthem Singer Selection Committee will review applications
• Applicants will be invited to audition with the Committee
• Final selection will be made by the President’s Office

Song Information:

• Must sing the USA National Anthem, the Star-Spangled Banner

Important Dates:

• April 17, 2026: Applications due
• May 4, 2026: Singer auditions
• May 15, 2026: Commencement singer announced
• June 17, 2026: Commencement Rehearsal
• June 18, 2026: Commencement Ceremony