14 Black Celebrities You Can Now Call Doctor

john legend honarary degree

John Legend

R&B artist and songwriter John Stephens, known best by his stage name John Legend, returned to his alma mater, University of Pennsylvania, on May 19, where he delivered the university’s 258th commencement address and received an honorary doctorate of music.

 “The key to success, the key to happiness is to open your heart to love.” said the “All Of Me” singer in his speech to the graduating class. “Spending your time doing things you love and with people you love.”

Stephens graduated in 1999 from UPENN with a degree in English and a concentration in African-American literature and culture.

 

 

viola davis juilliard school 109th commencement ceremony

Actress Viola Davis

Actress Viola Davis now can also be called “Doctor” after receiving an honorary Doctor of Fine Arts degree from her alma mater, The Juilliard School.

On May 23, the 48-year-old Oscar nominee participated in the graduation ceremonies for the class of 2014 at Alice Tully Hall in New York City.

She was among eight remarkable artists and philanthropists to be hooded and awarded degrees at the prestigious school’s 109th commencement ceremony.

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