For the first time in school history, the University of Washington will have a sitting member of the presidential cabinet as a commencement speaker.

Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates was announced last week as the commencement speaker for this year’s graduating class, who will have their ceremony on June 13.

“We got very lucky because the secretary of defense was willing and able [to speak],” said UW spokesperson Norm Arkans.

Arkans explained that finding a speaker every year is a challenging process.

“It’s like trying to manipulate a Rubik’s Cube,” Arkans said, explaining that availability, interest and affordability all factor into the position process.

Since the UW began using outside speakers in 1990, the school has paid amounts ranging from $10,000 to $20,000, but this year, Gates’ speech and appearance are on the house. Because of his position, he is not allowed to accept an honorarium payment.

Arkans said that the affordability has played a role in finding speakers in the past. Last year, the university considered Jon Stewart, but he was too expensive.

“You have to get a little lucky,” Arkans said.

Aside from his current position in President Obama’s cabinet, Gates has an extensive résumé, which includes serving as director of central intelligence for the CIA and president of Texas A&M University. He has also received the Presidential Citizens Medal, the National Security Medal, been awarded the National Intelligence Distinguished Service Medal twice and has received the Distinguished Intelligence Medal, the CIA’s highest award, three times.

“Gates is one of the most important public servants in our country right now,” Arkans said. “We got very lucky.”

Reach news editor Casey Smith at news@dailyuw.com.