Thanks to the hard work and sacrifice of those who came before us, Black people have obtained postsecondary degrees in record numbers. Black celebrities also have honorary degrees, which recognize their contributions to their particular fields. However, receiving a degree was far from simple for past generations.
In the Antebellum South, most Black people could not read or do basic math. As time progressed, Black folks were allowed to receive a primary education. Although it was an improvement, postsecondary education was not an option for most. Nevertheless, Black people took matters into their own hands and created colleges/universities, aka HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities).
Due to the tireless dedication of the ancestors, several Black people, including celebrities, have obtained higher education from HBCUs. Some of today’s most prominent and wealthiest stars have attended these historic universities, including Oprah Winfrey (Tennessee State University), Taraji P. Henson (Howard University), and Michael Strahan (Texas State University).
Several Black celebrities have been given honorary degrees. Typically, honorary degrees recognize those who have contributed to their field in ways equal to the work of receiving a degree in the traditional ways. Here are eight Black celebrities with honorary degrees!
1. Kerry Washington
Kerry Washington began gaining praise in 2001 when she played the role of the single teenage mother, Chenille, in the film “Save The Last Dance.” Since then, she has starred in multiple TV shows and films, including the hit ABC show “Scandal.” In 2013, the actress was awarded a Doctor of Fine Arts honorary degree from George Washington University, which is also her alma mater.
2. Angela Bassett
Angela Bassett has long been considered one of the best actresses of our time. She has starred in many roles, most notably as Tina Turner in “What’s Love Got to Do with It,” and Queen Romanda in “Black Panther.” The actress was honored with an honorary Doctor of Fine Arts from Yale University in 2018. Bassett received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Yale School of Drama in 1980 and 1983, respectively.
Bassett has also been honored with honorary degrees from Old Dominion University (2022) and Spelman College (2024). The mother of two was also inducted as an honorary member of Delta Sigma Theta, Inc. in 2013.
3. Tracee Ellis Ross
Tracee Ellis Ross first made her way into our hearts as the main character in “Girlfriends.” Since the show’s end, Ross went on to star in ABC’s “Black-ish” from 2014-2022. In 2023, Ross was awarded an honorary doctorate from Spelman College.
4. Stevie Wonder
Stevie Wonder has been a fixture in the music industry since his debut in 1961 when he was just 11 years old. The musician has paved the way for many Black artists and an encouragement to the Black community.
Yale University honored the singer with a Doctor of Music honorary degree in 2017. Wonder has also received honorary degrees from several other institutions, including Tulane University, Oberlin College, Fordham University, Johns Hopkins University, and Wayne State University.
5. Ludacris
As an Atlanta native, Ludacris has never been shy about showing love to his city. In 2022, the city followed suit in the form of an honorary degree. The rapper was awarded an honorary bachelor’s degree in music from Georgia State University. In his speech, he showed gratitude to the university and recognized their commitment to inclusion.
“This is very important to me, this school graduating more African-Americans than any other university in America,” he stated.
6. John Legend
There are few music artists who maintain technical skills and talent. John Legend has provided conscious and healing music for years and was recognized for his contributions in 2014. The singer was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Music degree from the University of Pennsylvania. Legend also received a Bachelor of Arts from the institution in 1999.
7. Michelle Obama
Our forever First Lady made history as the most educated First Lady and the first Black First Lady. Although Michelle Obama has multiple degrees, her work in the White House as an activist and author led her to receive an honorary degree of her own. In 2015, Tuskegee University honored Lady Obama with an honorary degree. She has also received honors from Jackson State University and The University of Arkansas.
8. Taraji P. Henson
As a gem in Black Hollywood, Taraji P. Henson has been a fan favorite since her debut in the ’90s. The actress is a proud graduate of Howard University. In 2022, the university recognized her for her extensive career in film and television and for bringing pride to the institution’s name. She received an honorary degree in Humane Letters and gave the commencement address.
These Black celebrities with honorary degrees have worked hard to earn these honors. Their commitment to their careers serves as an example for us all.
Which of these Black celebrities with honorary degrees is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below.
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