Philadelphia native Quinta Brunson will soon receive a pretty high honor from historic hometown college, Temple University.
On Friday, March 22, the school announced that the 34-year-old actress and producer will be awarded an honorary degree at its upcoming May 2024 commencement ceremony, in which she will also serve as a speaker.
“We are thrilled to recognize Quinta Brunson for her remarkable achievements and unwavering dedication to her craft,” Temple President Richard M. Englert said in a statement. “Quinta embodies the spirit of Temple’s commitment to creativity, innovation, and social impact. Her talent, authenticity, and trailblazing spirit inspire us all.”
The storied university has a pair of events scheduled for the top of May that they describe as celebrations in honor of Brunson’s outstanding contributions in the world of entertainment and the dedication she shows to shining a light on the underrepresented. Additionally, the “Abbott Elementary” star is set to receive the 2024 Lew Klein Excellence in the Media Award for being an inspiration to students via her forays into various forms of media.
Brunson and the university go way back to when she was a freshmen at Temple’s Klein College of Media & Communication where she joined Temple University Television’s (TUTV) first student-produced comedy variety show, Temple Smash. Though she dropped out to move to Los Angeles and pursue her dreams, Brunson has always considered her time at the school a launching pad for her.
Temple University annually awards honorary degrees to notable figures that are excelling in their fields. Past recipients of the school’s honorary degrees include Bishop Desmond Tutu, South Carolina Women’s Basketball Coach Dawn Staley, United States Senator Cory Booker, and Supreme Court Justice William Rehnquist.
Author and historian Charles L. Blockson, who passed away in June 2023, will also posthumously receive and honorary degree in addition to Brunson.
