Usher to Keynote Emory University Commencement 2025 Ceremony

ATLANTA, Ga. — Grammy Award-winning performer and philanthropist Usher Raymond IV is set to deliver the keynote address at Emory University’s 180th Commencement ceremony on Monday, May 12, at the Emory Quadrangle. Usher, known simply as Usher in the music industry, will also receive an honorary doctor of humane letters degree during the event.

Emory President Gregory L. Fenves praised Usher, stating, “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.”

Usher, who moved to Atlanta at age 12 to pursue music, has become one of the best-selling artists in music history. His accolades include eight Grammy Awards and nine No. 1 songs on the Billboard Hot 100, such as “U Got it Bad,” “Yeah!,” and “Burn.” After successful Las Vegas residencies from 2021-2023, he headlined the 2024 Apple Music Super Bowl Halftime Show.

In addition to his music career, Usher has also made significant contributions to philanthropic efforts, particularly through his nonprofit organization, Usher’s New Look (UNL). Founded in 1999, the organization has guided over 55,000 under-resourced teens in identifying their passions and achieving their education goals. “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.”

Part of UNL’s initiatives includes programs for middle and high school students focused on servant leadership and college preparation. According to organization data, 100% of Leadership Academy participants graduate high school, and 98% continue on to higher education, with 86% being first-generation college students.

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

During the Commencement ceremony, Emory will also honor Leonore Herzenberg and Susan Hassmiller with honorary degrees. Leonore, an immunologist and geneticist at Stanford University, will receive an honorary doctor of science degree. She and her late husband, Leonard, are known for their groundbreaking work in cell biology, including the invention of the Fluorescence Activated Cell Sorter.

Susan Hassmiller will be awarded an honorary doctor of humane letters degree for her contributions to nursing and health equity. Having spent 25 years at the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, she has served as a senior adviser for nursing and has been influential in addressing health disparities in underserved populations.

The Emory University Commencement Ceremony will begin at 8:30 a.m. on May 12. The event is ticketed for graduates and their guests, with additional details available on the university’s Commencement website.