Jennifer Coolidge, the Emmy-winning actress known for her roles in The White Lotus and Legally Blonde, delivered an inspiring commencement address at her alma mater, Emerson College, in Boston. Addressing the graduating class, Coolidge shared personal anecdotes and expressed her deep appreciation for the LGBTQ+ community.
A Warm Welcome to the LGBTQ+ Community
As she began her speech, Coolidge acknowledged the presence of LGBTQ+ students in the audience. “I’m excited that I’m speaking with some very excited gay students,” she said, pausing as the crowd erupted in cheers. She added with a smile, “And some less excited hetero students.” The lighthearted remark set a tone of inclusivity and warmth for the ceremony.
Sharing Personal Stories and Life Lessons
Coolidge recounted a childhood experience during a first-grade field day, where she participated in an obstacle course and, feeling elated after winning, was disqualified for skipping some obstacles. She used this story to illustrate the importance of setting high expectations and remaining resilient in the face of challenges. “I decided then to have insane expectations and believe they’re going to come true,” she shared.
Later, Coolidge revealed that the obstacle course story was a metaphor for life’s journey. “It doesn’t really matter what anyone thinks or says. When it comes to the obstacle course of your life, you have to find your own path,” she advised the graduates.
A Longstanding Ally to the LGBTQ+ Community
Coolidge’s support for the LGBTQ+ community is well-documented. In a 2023 GLAAD Media Awards speech, she humorously remarked, “Here I am again, surrounded by gays. It’s the story of my life.” She went on to express her gratitude, stating, “I want to give back, you know. I believe we all have the right to be who we are and to love the people that we love and tell our stories and celebrate that in every way that we can.”
At the same event, Coolidge was honored with GLAAD’s Special Recognition Award, presented by her longtime friend and co-star Jane Lynch. Lynch praised Coolidge, saying, “This wonderful woman here was pro-gay before it was cool to be pro-gay.” She added, “She is one of us, ladies and gentlemen. And I have always said that the world has to catch up to Jennifer Coolidge – and the world has caught up to Jennifer Coolidge!”
Embracing the LGBTQ+ Community
Coolidge’s connection with her LGBTQ+ fans is evident in her public statements. At the opening night party Tristan Schukraft’s new queer resort, Tryst Puerto Vallarta, Coolidge expressed her admiration for the LGBTQ+ community. She described them as a “superior group of people” who are unselfconscious, original, and know how to have a good time.
Jennifer Coolidge’s commencement address at Emerson College was a testament to her enduring support for the LGBTQ+ community and her commitment to inspiring others. Through personal stories and heartfelt messages, she encouraged graduates to embrace their unique paths and remain true to themselves. Her presence at the ceremony underscored the importance of inclusivity and the celebration of diverse identities in all aspects of life.
