Usher to Receive Honorary Doctorate, Deliver Keynote at Emory University Commencement

 

Usher at the 2015 Kennedy Center Honors Dinner. 

Grammy-winning R&B icon Usher Raymond IV is adding another prestigious honor to his legacy — an honorary doctorate from Emory University.

The multi-platinum artist, philanthropist, and entrepreneur will also serve as the commencement speaker for Emory’s 180th graduation ceremony on May 12 in Atlanta.

Emory announced the news on February 27, with University President Gregory L. Fenves highlighting Usher’s profound impact on music, culture, and community service.

“There are few artists in the history of popular music who have innovated as ceaselessly as Usher,” Fenves said. “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.”

A Legacy Beyond Music

Usher, who moved to Atlanta at age 12 to pursue his music career, has spent three decades at the forefront of R&B and pop music. Since his self-titled debut album in 1994, he has delivered nine No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot 100, including timeless classics like “U Got It Bad,” “Yeah!,” “Burn,” “My Boo” and “OMG.”

The eight-time Grammy winner has continued to evolve, headlining the 2024 Super Bowl Halftime Show and bringing Atlanta culture to a global audience through his sold-out Las Vegas residency from 2021-2023.

Beyond his trailblazing career in music, Usher has cemented his place as a philanthropist and mentor to young people. In 1999, he founded Usher’s New Look  an Atlanta-based nonprofit that has guided over 55,000 under-resourced teens through mentorship, leadership training, financial literacy education and career development.

Through a longstanding partnership with Emory University, Usher’s foundation has worked to empower students with the resources they need to succeed in high school, college, and beyond.

“New Look fills a critical need by stepping up to help students realize their potential,” Fenves noted. “Emory University has been proud to partner with this incredible organization over the years.”

Usher Reflects on the Honor

As he prepares to address Emory’s Class of 2024, Usher expressed his excitement about sharing his journey and inspiring graduates.

“I have spent my life following my spark — my passion — and trying to support young people as they find and follow their own passions,” Usher said. “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.”