‘Superman’ Director and Saint Louis University Alum James Gunn to Deliver 2026 Commencement Address
Clayton Berry
Assistant Vice President
berrycl@slu.edu
314-977-7117
Reserved for members of the media.
ST. LOUIS (April 9, 2026) — Celebrated filmmaker James Gunn (A&S ’92) will return to his alma mater, Saint Louis University, on May 16 to deliver the commencement address for the University’s 2026 spring commencement ceremony.
A visionary writer, director and producer, Gunn is best known for his work on films including 2025's "Superman" and the "Guardians of the Galaxy" franchise, as well as the Emmy-nominated television series "Peacemaker" he created for HBO Max.
As co-chairman and chief executive officer of DC Studios, Gunn is shaping the future of one of the world's most iconic storytelling franchises, guiding a new era of films and television projects centered on DC's legendary characters.
Throughout his career, Gunn has built a reputation for bringing unconventional, outsider characters to the forefront, often transforming lesser-known comic book figures into globally recognized icons while exploring themes of belonging and redemption.
"James Gunn's work reflects the power of imagination and perseverance, applied to both individual creative endeavors and the work of leadership," said Saint Louis University President Edward Feser, Ph.D. "His story is a compelling example for our graduates as they leave SLU to make their own impact on the world."
Gunn credits his time at Saint Louis University as foundational to his creative development. As a SLU student, he found his passion for storytelling in the classroom, an experience he has described as the beginning of his career.
"Saint Louis University is where I first discovered my voice as a storyteller and realized what I wanted to do in life," Gunn said. "Being invited to return as commencement speaker is a full-circle moment, and I'm grateful to celebrate with the graduates and their families."
Born and raised in St. Louis, James Gunn began his career at age 12 by making a zombie movie with an eight-millimeter camera. He rose to global prominence with the "Guardians of the Galaxy" trilogy, which grossed a combined $2.4 billion worldwide and was widely praised for its emotional storytelling, distinctive humor and themes of found family.
Most recently, Gunn wrote and directed "Superman," which grossed over $618 million
at the global box office and received rave reviews from both fans and critics, who
have praised its celebration of humanity and kindness in a world that sometimes forgets
to value such traits. He is currently developing the film's sequel, which is slated
for release in 2027.
In addition to Gunn's address during the commencement ceremony, Saint Louis University
will confer honorary degrees upon him and three other distinguished SLU alums for
their significant contributions to the arts, business, law and medicine.
J. Joe Adorjan
Trustee emeritus J. Joe Adorjan (Chaifetz '63, Grad Chaifetz' 67) served as a member and chairman of SLU's Board of Trustees for more than 25 years. He is the chairman of Adven Capital, previously serving as a management partner at Stonington Partners, Inc. Over the course of his career, he has played a central role in guiding both public and private enterprises through periods of growth, strategic transition and operational improvement. In addition to his impressive career, Adorjan has held numerous positions on civic and nonprofit boards, including United Way of Greater St. Louis, Grand Center Inc. and the Missouri Council for a Better Economy. He is the founder and chairman emeritus of the Hungarian-Missouri Educational Partnership, a not-for-profit scholarship program. Adorjan earned his B.S. in 1963 and M.S.C. in 1967 from Saint Louis University.
Judge Henry Autrey
The Hon. Henry Autrey (A&S '74, Law' 77) serves as a United States district judge for the Eastern District of Missouri, a role he has held since 2002. Judge Autrey previously served as an assistant circuit attorney and first assistant circuit attorney for the City of St. Louis before becoming an Associate Judge for the 22nd Judicial Circuit Court of the City of St. Louis in 1986. He served as a circuit judge from 1997 until his federal appointment in 2002. Judge Autrey has also served the community in various positions and boards, including the Boards of Senior Home Security, the St. Louis Area Foodbank, Human Energies, Inc., and Aid to Victims of Crime. He earned his B.A. in 1974 and his J.D. in 1977 from Saint Louis University.
Sr. Mary Haddad, RSM
Sr. Mary Haddad (MSW' 93) is the president and chief executive officer of the Catholic Health Association of the United States. A member of the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas, she has served on numerous boards and advisory committees, including the Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, the Coalition to Strengthen America's Healthcare, and the advisory board for the Center for Theology and Ethics in Catholic Health. Sr. Mary holds a master's degree in business administration in health care from the University of St. Thomas, a master's in social work from SLU and a bachelor's degree in education from Southern Illinois University.
About the Ceremony
Saint Louis University's spring commencement ceremony begins at 9 a.m. on Saturday, May 16, in Chaifetz Arena. The event will also be livestreamed on slu.edu and archived on SLU's official YouTube channel.