Timothy Simons Returns To UMaine For Class Of 2026 Commencement

It's always nice to see folks from Maine make it big. It's even nicer when they decide to come back home and share some of that experience with the place they first called home.

That's going to be the case this May at the University of Maine graduation ceremonies, as former UMaine grad-turned-television star Timothy Simons returns to his old stomping grounds to deliver the commencement speech to the Class of 2026.

Timothy Simons attends the 30th Annual Critics Choice Awards at Barker Hangar on February 07, 2025 in Santa Monica, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images)

The University shared the news this week on its Facebook page.

"Meet UMaine’s 2026 undergraduate commencement speaker, acclaimed actor and Maine native, Timothy Simons ’01! Known for Jonah Ryan on HBO’s “Veep” and Sasha in “Nobody Wants This,” Simons' journey began right here in Orono. 'That’s where my love of theater and acting first started,' Simons said. 'I can kind of connect every dot of where I am now to being at UMaine and stumbling across the theater department there.'"

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According to the University's website, UMaine President Joan Ferrini-Mundy says everyone is looking forward to having Simons come home to Maine.

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"We’re excited to welcome Timothy back to campus...His story is a wonderful reminder of how discovering a passion at UMaine can shape a lifetime. Our graduates will see in his journey how curiosity, creativity, and community can open pathways to meaningful careers.”

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Simons graduated from the University of Maine in 2001, having grown up in the Kennebec County town of Readfield. He became interested and active in performing arts during his time in Orono, under the leadership of Sandra Hardy.

82nd Annual Golden Globe Awards - Arrivals BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 05: Timothy Simons attends the 82nd Annual Golden Globe Awards at The Beverly Hilton on January 05, 2025 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images)

This year's UMaine graduation ceremonies will take place back on the University of Maine Campus, at the newly renovated Alfond Arena. In years past, the celebration has been held at the Cross Insurance Center. There will be two sessions this year, one at 9:30 AM and another at 2:30 PM. Simons is scheduled to address graduates at both events.