Usher To Deliver 180th Commencement Speech At Emory University

Emory University has tapped Grammy-winning icon Usher Raymond IV to deliver the keynote address at its 180th Commencement. The R&B luminary will also receive an honorary doctorate of humane letters degree.

The “King of R&B” and philanthropist will take the Emory Quadrangle stage in Atlanta to inspire the next generation of graduates with wisdom that he’s learned over his decades long music career.

“I have spent my life following my spark — my passion — and trying to support young people as they find and follow their own passions,” he stated in a press release. “I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to speak to these incredible Emory students as they graduate and prepare to make their mark on the world.”

President of the University, Gregory L. Fenves, also stated, “There are few artists in the history of popular music who have innovated as ceaselessly as Usher. Through acclaimed albums, era-defining songs, global tours and live performances that showcase his peerless talent as a singer, songwriter and dancer, Usher has connected profoundly with generations of fans, building a dedicated audience that continues to grow.”

From chart-topping hits to his own philanthropy work, Usher has consistently used his platform to inspire. Since 1999, Usher has led Usher’s New Look (UNL), an Atlanta-based nonprofit that has guided over 55,000 under-resourced teens in discovering their potential, furthering their education, and serving their communities.

Partnering with Emory’s Goizueta Business School, UNL introduces middle school students to servant leadership, financial literacy, and career exploration through its day-long “Powered by Service” intensive leadership program. For high schoolers, the organization’s Leadership Academy offers students a four-year, 400-hour training program focused on graduation, college preparation and service, while the post-secondary Moguls in Training program provides a virtual college and career support system.