20 Famous Speakers Who Have Visited The O'Connell Center

Not only has the O'Connell Center hosted many musical artists, but we have also had many speakers and comedians here, too. Many of these speakers were brought by Student Government's ACCENT Speaker's Bureau. Here's a list of some of the most recent ones.

1. Ron Paul (2013)

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After dropping out of the presidential race in 2012, he spoke at the O’Connell Center about politics and the American economic system.

2. Seth Myers (2012)

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Before he took over as the host for NBC’s “Late Night” show, he did some stand-up comedy at UF and talked about his experience on “Saturday Night Live.”

3. Michelle Obama (2012)

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Before President Barack Obama won a second term, the First Lady stopped by to support her husband’s presidential campaign.

4. Shaquille O'Neal (2011)

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Shaquille O’Neal spoke about life after the NBA and his future career move to TNT.

5. Daniel Tosh (2011)

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Comedian Daniel Tosh, known for his show “Tosh.0” on Comedy Central, performed a stand-up routine.

6. Steve Wozniak (2010)

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The co-founder of Apple talked about his relationship with Steve Jobs, keys to success, and how he went from being a computer nerd to a technological icon.

7. Ron White (2010)

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The Grammy-nominated comedian performed his stand-up routine to thousands in the O’Connell Center. He also came in 2007.

8. John Legend (2010)

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After singing a few songs on the piano, John Legend spoke about the educational system and charity work for students.

9. Demetri Martin (2009)

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The comedian, who had his own show on Comedy Central called “Important Things with Demetri Martin,” did stand-up comedy.

10. Jeff Dunham (2009)

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Jeff Dunham brought along his puppets on his Spark of Insanity Comedy Tour at the O’Connell Center.

11. Bob Saget (2008)

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The former “Full House” star performed a raunchy stand-up routine.

12. Adam Savage & Jamie Hyneman (2008)

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The “Mythbusters” from the popular Discovery Channel show talked about accidents on the show and how they love their job.

13. Lewis Black (2007)

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The comedian performed his ranting comedic style to the O’Connell Center in his stand-up routine.

14. Spike Lee (2006)

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The filmmaker spoke to a crowd of students about pursuing your passions.

15. Ron Jeremy (2005)

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Ron Jeremy spoke in a controversial debate on pornography.

16. Janet Reno (2005)

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The former U.S. Attorney General spoke to motivate students to get involved with public service.

17. Michael Moore (2004)

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The filmmaker and political activist talked politics to a crowd of students.

18. Dr. Ruth (2004)

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The German sex therapist and TV personality spoke to a mature crowd at the O’Connell Center.

19. Bill Clinton (2003)

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The former U.S. President talked politics and his support for the war in Iraq.

20. Danny Glover (2003)

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The actor, producer and director stopped by on his university speaking tour to motivate leadership and civil action.