Bryce Allers, a Mecosta County native and graduate of Morley Stanwood High School, has been selected as the undergraduate commencement speaker for the School of Public Affairs at American University.

Allers will deliver the student address at the university's graduation ceremony on May 9, 2026, at Bender Arena in Washington, D.C., speaking before graduates, faculty, and families. 

The selection is a significant honor, recognizing leadership, academic achievement, and commitment to public service.

A native of Mecosta County, Allers' journey to the nation's capital reflects years of hard work and determination. At American University, Allers majored in Political Science with a concentration in American Government, combining academic study with hands-on experience in federal government offices.

Allers has interned with U.S. Senator from Michigan, Gary Peters, in Washington, D.C., and Congressman Jamie Raskin in Maryland, contributing to communications, constituent services, and policy research. These experiences provided a firsthand understanding of how government decisions affect everyday people and communities like those in West Michigan.

"Coming from a small town, opportunities like this didn't always feel within reach," Allers said. "Being selected to speak at commencement is something I never imagined, and it means everything to represent where I come from on a stage like this."

Allers' selection reflects a personal journey from a small town in West Michigan to the national stage, underscoring how opportunity, access, and determination can expand what once felt out of reach.

Following graduation, Allers plans to continue working in public service, focusing on government communications, constituent services, immigration, and public policy.

_{Release and photo courtesy of Allers.}