Women’s Volleyball Captain Selected as Commencement Speaker at Conn

As Connecticut College prepares for commencement this May, Posse Chicago Scholar Zoe Watts is closing out her senior year with two defining milestones: finishing her final volleyball season as team captain and being selected as a senior speaker for graduation.

Zoe, who has been a member of the college’s volleyball program throughout her time on campus, described her role as captain as one rooted in accountability and care for her teammates.

“I wanted to make sure everyone felt supported and confident in what they were bringing to the team,” she says. “Leadership, to me, is about showing up for people consistently.”

Her experience as a student-athlete has shaped much of her college journey, teaching her how to balance the demands of academics, athletics, and campus leadership. Those lessons carried beyond the court and into the broader campus community, where she became known for her presence and ability to bring people together.

That combination of leadership and connection is reflected in her selection as a senior speaker—an honor that recognizes both her contributions and her voice within the graduating class. Zoe said she sees the opportunity as a chance to represent not only her own experience, but that of her peers.

“I want to speak to what we have all gone through and what we are taking with us into our next phase of life,” she said.

Leadership, to me, is about showing up for people consistently.

Throughout her time at Conn, Zoe has focused on building community and creating space for others. She spoke about the importance of being intentional in how she engages with those around her, both on her team and across campus.

“I think a lot about what it means to show up fully,” she said. “Not just academically, but for the people around me.”

As a Posse Scholar, Zoe credits her cohort with helping her navigate challenges and stay grounded during her college experience. That sense of support, she says, reinforced her commitment to leading with empathy and purpose.

“Having people who are invested in you makes a difference,” she said. “It pushes you to do the same for others.”

Looking ahead, Zoe will spend the summer gaining professional experience as she prepares for the next step in her career. She plans to pursue a path in law, with the long-term goal of becoming an attorney.

She said, “I’ve always been interested in advocacy and using my voice to support others. That’s something I want to continue building on.”

As she prepares to take the stage at commencement, Zoe reflects a college experience defined by leadership across multiple spaces—on the court, on campus, and now, at the podium.