At the start of the spring 2025 semester, senior media studies and production major Natalie Koranda submitted an application to be the 2025 University Student Commencement Speaker. A few weeks later, she learned she had not been selected, but her story did not end there.
Every school sends its top candidate and the university selects one speaker. This year’s University Commencement Speaker is Klein’s very own senior advertising major, Arianna Watkins. Because Watkins was chosen to represent the university, Koranda was selected to speak at Klein College’s ceremony.
“Ever since I can remember, I loved being in the spotlight,” said Koranda. “I danced for 17 years, which kinda translated to my time on the desk for sports. When eyes are on me, I think that I hold myself well and I can get a good message across.”
Koranda made a name for herself during her four years as an Owl. She juggled internships with NBC10 and WGAL while managing on-campus commitments with OwlSports Update and content roles for the College of Public Health and Klein College’s communication studies program.
She also received national recognition with a nomination for a National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences College Production Award in the Mid-Atlantic Region last fall. In February, she earned second place for Best Sports Talent from the Broadcast Education Association Festival of Media Arts.
Seamlessly, she had it all together, but it was not that simple when she arrived for her first semester on Broad Street.
After Koranda’s first semester, she considered dropping out. Instead, she immersed herself in OwlSports Update, working her way up from volunteer to anchor. During her speech, Koranda plans to share her story and offer encouragement to others who have faced similar challenges.
"Persevere conquers, because we have all been through stuff,” said Koranda. “We’ve been through challenges, but if you’re sitting on the stage or floor, [like everyone next week] then you made it.”
Klein College’s Graduation Ceremony will take place on Thursday, May 8 at 2 p.m. in the Liacouras Center.
After Thursday’s ceremony, Koranda will have some time off before starting a full-time position at Fox 43 in Harrisburg, Pa as a Multiskilled Journalist this summer.