via UH, 'Arnold Schwarzenegger, the actor-businessman-political leader who will headline the University of Houston’s 2017 commencement, announced Thursday that he will not be accepting a fee.
Schwarzenegger, who served as the Republican governor of California from 2003-10, will speak at the May 12 ceremony at TDECU Stadium. The contract called for him to be paid $40,000.
"Gov. Schwarzenegger wasn't aware that a fee was arranged by his representatives to deliver this commencement address, and he has never asked for a speaking fee to speak to students. He has asked his representatives to waive the fee, and he looks forward to his visit," said Daniel Ketchell, spokesman for Gov. Schwarzenegger.'