LeVar Burton, renowned literacy champion and celebrated actor, will deliver the keynote address at Howard University’s 157th Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 10, 2025. The announcement comes as the university prepares to honor one of its largest graduating classes in school history during a week-long celebration of academic achievement.
A gathering of academic excellence
The prestigious institution will confer degrees to graduates from all 14 of Howard’s schools and colleges during festivities spanning May 7-10. The comprehensive ceremony will award bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees, representing the culmination of years of rigorous academic pursuit across numerous disciplines.
Howard University made the announcement through their official social media channels, generating immediate excitement throughout the alumni network and current student body. The selection of Burton aligns perfectly with the university’s commitment to excellence in education and public service.
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Burton’s extraordinary legacy
While many recognize Burton from his unforgettable performances in Roots and Star Trek: The Next Generation, his most enduring contribution may be his decades-long dedication to promoting literacy. As the host and executive producer of Reading Rainbow, Burton inspired generations of children to discover the joy of reading.
During the ceremony, Burton will receive an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree, acknowledging his exceptional contributions to education and entertainment. Howard University‘s administration emphasized that Burton’s selection reflects his outstanding artistic achievements and unwavering commitment to education as a transformative force.
Expanding influence in digital media
Burton’s impact continues to evolve in the digital age. His podcast, LeVar Burton Reads, has surpassed 25 million downloads, demonstrating his enduring relevance as a storyteller across multiple platforms. The podcast features Burton reading short fiction to adults, extending his literacy advocacy to new audiences.
His recent documentary project, The Right to Read, approaches America’s literacy crisis through a civil rights framework. The film powerfully argues that literacy represents not merely an educational goal but a fundamental human right – a message that resonates deeply with Howard University’s historic mission of empowerment through education.
Community anticipation
The announcement has sparked enthusiastic reactions across social media platforms. Howard University community members have expressed particular excitement about Burton’s selection, noting his cultural significance to multiple generations.
Many alumni have noted Burton’s significant influence on millennials who grew up watching Reading Rainbow. His selection resonates deeply with generations who were shaped by his educational programming, creating a special connection for this commencement ceremony.
Faculty members at Howard have also expressed their enthusiasm for Burton’s selection. The History Department in particular has celebrated the choice, acknowledging Burton’s contributions to education and cultural awareness through his various platforms and initiatives.
Additional distinguished honorees
While Burton will headline the event, Howard University will also recognize several other remarkable individuals with honorary degrees:
- Dr. Emery Neal Brown, a pioneering leader in neuroscience research
- The Honorable Barbara Lee, a dedicated Congresswoman with a long history of advocacy for underserved communities
- Lilian Seenoi-Barr, who made history as Northern Ireland’s first Black mayor
- Natasha Trethewey, whose powerful poetry earned her the Pulitzer Prize
Each recipient exemplifies excellence in their respective fields while demonstrating a commitment to social progress – values central to Howard University’s institutional identity.
A watershed moment
The 157th Commencement represents more than just an academic milestone for graduating students. It serves as a celebration of perseverance during challenging times and the promise of positive impact in the years ahead.
Burton’s address is expected to draw from his diverse experiences as an artist, educator and advocate. His unique perspective – spanning entertainment, technology and education – positions him perfectly to inspire graduates preparing to navigate a rapidly changing professional landscape.
Howard University’s selection of Burton reflects a thoughtful alignment between the institution’s historic mission and contemporary challenges. As graduates prepare to receive their degrees, Burton’s presence will undoubtedly add significance to an already momentous occasion.
For the Howard University community, this commencement ceremony represents both the culmination of academic journeys and the beginning of new chapters filled with possibility. Burton’s participation ensures that literacy, learning and creative expression will remain central themes as graduates transition to their next endeavors.
