Henry Winkler: Emerson’s 2026 Commencement Speaker

Award-winning actor, producer, director, author, and Emerson alum Henry Winkler ’67, LHD ’78, will deliver the keynote Commencement speech to the Class of 2026 on Saturday, May 9 at the Wang Theatre in Boston. 

Winkler first came into American living rooms in the 1970s as breakout character Arthur “Fonzie” Fonzarelli in Happy Days. Since then, he has stolen scenes as Barry Zuckerkorn in Arrested Development and Gene Cousineau in Barry, a role that won him an Emmy Award. 

On top of his prolific TV and film career, Winkler, who has dyslexia, co-wrote the Hank Zipzer children’s book series, about a child with the condition. The series is written and published to make it easier for those with dyslexia to read. In September 2011, Winkler was appointed an Honorary Officer of the British Empire (OBE) by Queen Elizabeth II for his service to children with dyslexia and special needs. 

Originally from New York, Winkler came to Emerson to study acting, and was “accepted … into its family,” he told Emerson students in a 2011 visit to Boston. Winkler credits Emerson’s small size, and the support of caring and committed faculty such as the late Charlotte Lindgren and the late Leo Nickole ’49, LHD ’01, for much of his success. 

While at Emerson, Winkler pledged the Alpha Pi Theta fraternity, acted in numerous productions, and became involved with WERS.     

“Emerson College is incredibly honored to welcome the legendary Henry Winkler back to his alma mater as our Commencement keynote speaker,” said President Jay Bernhardt.

“Henry perfectly embodies the extraordinary Emersonian spirit and pursuit of excellence,” Bernhardt said. “His career has been a commitment to Emerson’s values of creativity, curiosity, and expression. I hope our graduates will be inspired and energized as he shares his own personal and professional journey, and I know our entire community will be heartened by his example.”

Approximately 1,000 undergraduate students will receive their degrees during three individual School ceremonies that will be held throughout the day on Saturday, May 9, with the All-College Commencement for bachelor’s and master’s degree candidates beginning at 7 p.m. The College-wide celebration will feature speakers, honorary degree recipients, and performances. Two Graduate Hooding Ceremonies for 500 master’s candidates will be held the day prior on Friday, May 8. 

All events will be streamed live on emerson.edu/live.