Yale University Honours Eight Visionaries with Honorary Degrees at 324th Commencement

By Siya May 25, 2025
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In a celebration of excellence, Yale University conferred honorary degrees upon eight distinguished individuals during its 324th graduation ceremony, recognising their extraordinary contributions across science, the arts, and public service.

The honorary degrees were awarded in the presence of graduates and faculty, with Yale President Maurie McInnis praising the recipients as “examples of creativity, curiosity, discipline, integrity, and public service.” Their accomplishments, she said, serve as a guiding light for the graduating class.

Among the honourees was Frances H. Arnold, Nobel Prize-winning bioengineer known for her groundbreaking work in evolutionary chemistry. Debbie Allen, acclaimed performer, director, and founder of the Debbie Allen Dance Academy, was recognised for her artistic impact and commitment to nurturing young talent.

Other recipients included Michael B. Curry, former presiding bishop and advocate for social justice; Ronald L. Carter, jazz legend and composer; Annette Gordon-Reed, Pulitzer-winning historian; Peter B. Moore, celebrated chemist and Yale professor; Fei-Fei Li, a pioneer in artificial intelligence; and Henry Louis “Skip” Gates, Jr., award-winning literary scholar and filmmaker.

Allen, who was awarded the Doctor of Fine Arts degree, was hailed as a “polymath of performance” and “promoter of change,” with Yale lauding her decades-long influence in the arts and education.

In addition to the honorary degrees, Yale College recognised eleven students from the Class of 2025 with its highest academic honours. Dean Pericles Lewis announced the prestigious awards, with winners granted the honour of carrying ceremonial flags during the commencement procession on 19 May.

The awards include the Warren Memorial Prize (American flag), the Russell Henry Chittenden Prize (Connecticut flag), the Arthur Twining Hadley Prize (Yale College banner), the Sudler Prize (president’s banners), and the Alpheus Henry Snow Prize (Yale University banner).

The ceremony reaffirmed Yale’s global stature in education and its commitment to honouring individuals whose work shapes the world—further strengthening academic inspiration for students worldwide, including those from the United States and beyond.

Source: SHIKSHA

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