Indianapolis, IN - April 23, 2024 -- The Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library (KVML) invites the Class of 2024 to celebrate graduation virtually! Our annual Graduation Party is an online event featuring a commencement speech written by Kurt Vonnegut and read by none other than Lewis Black, comic, actor, writer, and the longest-running contributor on The Daily Show. "Facing the world today is no small feat, but with a dash of humor and a pinch of Vonnegut’s wisdom, I'm here to remind the Class of 2024 that they've got what it takes to write their own unique chapters," says Lewis Black. Black will be joined by other notable readers as part of this annual celebration, including KVML board member and fellow comedian Dwight Simmons.
This event happening May 7th from 6PM to 7PM is an opportunity to honor the accomplishments of these young minds. The KVML, in partnership with Seven Stories Press, is eager to host this momentous event. "This unique collaboration with the Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library underscores our commitment to celebrating literary greatness and the profound impact of Vonnegut's work on readers and writers alike," says Dan Simon, Founder/CEO of Seven Stories Press. We are inviting all 2024 Grads, their friends, and families to join us for a memorable evening filled with laughter, wisdom, and tributes.
This year's graduation party is dedicated to our dear friend and best-selling author Dan Wakefield, who was a novelist, journalist, screenwriter, and Indianapolis native. He was one of Vonnegut's longtime friends and the person who selected and wrote the introduction for "If This Isn't Nice, What Is? The Graduation Speeches and Other Words to Live By," a collection of Vonnegut's commencement speeches.
"As we gather virtually to celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2024, we are reminded of Kurt Vonnegut’s enduring wisdom and wit that continue to inspire generations,” says Julia Whitehead, Founder/CEO of the KVML. “This event is not just a celebration but a beacon of hope and creativity in a world that dearly needs it. In these times, Vonnegut’s words are a lighthouse for the graduates as they navigate their futures. This also provides a chance for us to posthumously thank our friend Dan Wakefield for his many contributions and fun times. We love hosting this event each year with our dear friends at Seven Stories Press. Our Board Chair Lewis Black is the cherry on top.”
We encourage everyone to purchase a copy of If This Isn't Nice, What Is? The Graduation Speeches and Other Words to Live By or Breaking Down Vonnegut from our museum shop. These books make the perfect gift for graduates, offering them inspiration, wisdom, and a lifetime of experiences from one of the greatest writers of our time.
A huge congratulations to all 2024 Grads! As you celebrate this pivotal moment, make the KVML virtual graduation part of your graduation festivities. Send your graduate’s name and school to info@vonnegutlibrary.org or include it in the chat box during the program and Lewis will read it along with other graduates. KVML offers a memorable and meaningful celebration at which you will connect, celebrate, and be inspired alongside fellow graduates and Vonnegut enthusiasts from around the world!
About our Speakers:
Lewis Black is well-known for his comedy albums, two Grammy awards, numerous specials, and his appearance in many films. Perhaps most notably, he voiced the character "Anger" in Pixar's "Inside Out." His latest comedy special, "Thanks For Risking Your Life," is currently available for streaming. Lewis serves as the Chairman of the Board for the Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library.
About the Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library:
The KVML's mission is to champion the literary, artistic, and cultural contributions of Vonnegut to improve the lives of students, teachers, veterans, readers, and our community. We continue Vonnegut’s fight against censorship and support language and visual arts education through programs and educational engagements for all ages.
The Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library (KVML) champions the literary, artistic, and cultural contributions of Vonnegut to improve the lives of students, teachers, veterans, readers, and our community through cultural and educational experiences. KVML continues Vonnegut’s fight against censorship and supports language and visual arts education through programs and educational engagements for all ages.
