GRADUATION SZN: Jalen Hurts Receives Master's Degree, Sasha Obama Graduates From USC, Usher Receives Honorary Doctorate

It’s graduation season! Go inside to celebrate with Eagles QB Jalen Hurts, forever first daughter Sasha Obama, R&B singer Usher, and more!             View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Jalen Hurts (@jalenhurts) Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts continues to make waves both on and off the field. This year, he added another remarkable accomplishment to his list by earning a master's degree! The Eagles QB graduated with a degree in human relations from the University of Oklahoma over the weekend. The 24-year-old NFL quarterback took to social media to share photos from the big day with the caption, “I Know Momma Proud Of This One.. Master of Human Relations #BREEDOF1” Yasss! Securing the bag for post-NFL live. We love to see it.         View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by TheYBF (@theybf_daily) Hailing from Houston, the Eagles QB embarked on his college football journey at Alabama, where he made a remarkable impact both on and off the field. Displaying his exceptional dedication and drive, he completed his bachelor's degree in communication and information sciences in just three years. Seeking new challenges and opportunities, Jalen made the decision to transfer to the University of Oklahoma in 2019, kickstarting his pursuit of a master's degree while continuing to make waves in the football world. Jalen’s journey from the gridiron to the classroom showcases his relentless drive and determination to excel in all aspects of his life. He literally led his team to the Super Bowl while working towards his master’s degree. The Kansas City Chiefs ultimately won the game 38-35.  In April, Jalen signed a five-year contract extension worth $255 million, which made him the highest-paid player in NFL history (at that time). What a remarkable young man! We’re rooting for Jalen and the Eagles to win next year’s NFL championship! At another graduation… Sasha Obama graduated from USC today!! Congratulations to the Obama Family! pic.twitter.com/oP9QXAlIFG — Madam Vice President Harris is THEE GOAT! (@flywithkamala) May 12, 2023 Major congrats to our Forever First Daughter! Sasha Obama, the incredible youngest daughter of Barack and Michelle Obama, has achieved a remarkable milestone that fills her parents with immense pride. At just 21 years old, she has officially graduated from college, marking a significant accomplishment in her educational journey. Surrounded by her loving family, Sasha confidently took center stage at the University of Southern California, where she received her well-deserved degree in sociology. When Sasha embarked on her college adventure in 2019, she initially attended the University of Michigan as a bright-eyed freshman. However, she later decided to transfer to the University of Southern California, where she continued to pursue her dreams. It's heartwarming to learn that Sasha and her older sister Malia have been supporting and living together in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, as revealed by Michelle Obama last year. Their bond as sisters and their shared experiences undoubtedly made Sasha's college journey even more meaningful. Forever president Barack Obama, forever first lady Michelle Obama, and forever first daughter Malia Obama were in attendance to celebrate Sasha’s achievement:  Sasha Obama graduated from USC! President Barack Obama & First Lady Michelle Obama our proud Parents who must be wondering where did the time go! Great Job & Much Future Success! pic.twitter.com/PsfFl0VtWo — Dan "I Stand With Ukraine" P (@ddanpereira) May 12, 2023 All grown up! Sasha Obama is gorgeous Sasha Obama graduated from the University of Southern California pic.twitter.com/svpF4PcsUz — 3ChicsPolitico (@3ChicsPolitico) May 13, 2023 Congrats, Sasha! At another graduation…         View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by TheYBF (@theybf_daily) That’ll be Dr. Usher Raymond now. Usher was bestowed with a prestigious honor at the 2023 commencement ceremony of Berklee College of Music. The momentous event took place at the Agganis Arena in the vibrant city of Boston, Massachusetts over the weekend. During the ceremony, Berklee's esteemed Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs, David Bogen, had the distinct honor of presenting Usher with an honorary Doctor of Music degree. The singer received the honor in acknowledgment of his invaluable contributions to music and philanthropy.         View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Usher (@usher) In a moving commencement speech, the 8-time Grammy winner expressed his deep gratitude and shared his artistic aspirations. He emphasized that his ultimate goal as an artist has always been to inspire individuals, to evoke emotions through his music, and to ignite positive change in the world. Watch his speech below: Also… So honored to be

GRADUATION SZN: Jalen Hurts Receives Master's Degree, Sasha Obama Graduates From USC, Usher Receives Honorary Doctorate

It’s graduation season! Go inside to celebrate with Eagles QB Jalen Hurts, forever first daughter Sasha Obama, R&B singer Usher, and more!

 

 

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts continues to make waves both on and off the field. This year, he added another remarkable accomplishment to his list by earning a master's degree!

The Eagles QB graduated with a degree in human relations from the University of Oklahoma over the weekend. The 24-year-old NFL quarterback took to social media to share photos from the big day with the caption, “I Know Momma Proud Of This One.. Master of Human Relations #BREEDOF1”

Yasss! Securing the bag for post-NFL live. We love to see it.

Hailing from Houston, the Eagles QB embarked on his college football journey at Alabama, where he made a remarkable impact both on and off the field. Displaying his exceptional dedication and drive, he completed his bachelor's degree in communication and information sciences in just three years. Seeking new challenges and opportunities, Jalen made the decision to transfer to the University of Oklahoma in 2019, kickstarting his pursuit of a master's degree while continuing to make waves in the football world.

Jalen’s journey from the gridiron to the classroom showcases his relentless drive and determination to excel in all aspects of his life. He literally led his team to the Super Bowl while working towards his master’s degree. The Kansas City Chiefs ultimately won the game 38-35. 

In April, Jalen signed a five-year contract extension worth $255 million, which made him the highest-paid player in NFL history (at that time). What a remarkable young man!

We’re rooting for Jalen and the Eagles to win next year’s NFL championship!

At another graduation…

Major congrats to our Forever First Daughter!

Sasha Obama, the incredible youngest daughter of Barack and Michelle Obama, has achieved a remarkable milestone that fills her parents with immense pride. At just 21 years old, she has officially graduated from college, marking a significant accomplishment in her educational journey. Surrounded by her loving family, Sasha confidently took center stage at the University of Southern California, where she received her well-deserved degree in sociology.

When Sasha embarked on her college adventure in 2019, she initially attended the University of Michigan as a bright-eyed freshman. However, she later decided to transfer to the University of Southern California, where she continued to pursue her dreams. It's heartwarming to learn that Sasha and her older sister Malia have been supporting and living together in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, as revealed by Michelle Obama last year. Their bond as sisters and their shared experiences undoubtedly made Sasha's college journey even more meaningful.

Forever president Barack Obama, forever first lady Michelle Obama, and forever first daughter Malia Obama were in attendance to celebrate Sasha’s achievement: 

All grown up!

Congrats, Sasha!

At another graduation…

That’ll be Dr. Usher Raymond now.

Usher was bestowed with a prestigious honor at the 2023 commencement ceremony of Berklee College of Music. The momentous event took place at the Agganis Arena in the vibrant city of Boston, Massachusetts over the weekend.

During the ceremony, Berklee's esteemed Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs, David Bogen, had the distinct honor of presenting Usher with an honorary Doctor of Music degree. The singer received the honor in acknowledgment of his invaluable contributions to music and philanthropy.

In a moving commencement speech, the 8-time Grammy winner expressed his deep gratitude and shared his artistic aspirations. He emphasized that his ultimate goal as an artist has always been to inspire individuals, to evoke emotions through his music, and to ignite positive change in the world.

Watch his speech below:

Also…

Four-time Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Roberta Flack was also presented with an honorary Doctor of Music degree.

Major congrats to them both!

Speaking of honorary degrees…

Sheryl Lee Ralph, the esteemed actress and activist, was honored with an honorary doctor of fine arts degree by Rutgers President Jonathan Holloway.

Surrounded by her loving family, including her son Etienne and daughter Ivy, they captured joyful moments on campus.

The Class of 2023 at Rutgers University had the incredible privilege of being addressed by the talented Emmy-award winning actress during their commencement ceremony on Mother's Day. In her inspiring speech, she quoted poignant lines from Diane Reeves' "Endangered Species" record, evoking memories of her own Emmy Award speech. Additionally, she paid a heartfelt tribute to the late activist and esteemed Rutgers graduate, Paul Robeson, honoring his legacy and the impact he made.

Watch her speech below:

At another graduation:

Dr. Heavenly Kimes, the beloved star of "Married to Medicine," had an extra special reason to celebrate during Mother's Day Weekend. She proudly witnessed her daughter, Alaura Kimes, graduating from high school, marking a significant milestone in her educational journey. The joyous occasion brought smiles and heartfelt pride to Dr. Heavenly as she honored the achievements of her talented daughter.

Alaura is carving her own path while honoring her mother's legacy. She recently shared exciting news of her decision to attend Florida A&M University, the very same institution where her mother obtained her bachelor's degree.

Congrats!

Speaking of moms…

In a remarkable achievement, Tampa Bay Buccaneers coach Todd Bowles fulfilled a promise he made to his late mother as he graduated from college. After a hiatus of 37 years, Bowles obtained his undergraduate degree, a testament to his unwavering determination and commitment.

Despite leaving school to pursue a career in the NFL, Bowles never forgot his promise to his mother. This milestone is a testament to his resilience and serves as an inspiration to others, demonstrating the power of perseverance and the fulfillment of long-held goals.

Major congrats!

Lastly…

President Joe Biden seized the opportunity of his commencement address at Howard University to connect with young Black voters, providing a glimpse into his campaign's strategy to reinvigorate support within this crucial demographic.

During the university's 155th commencement ceremony, President Biden was granted an honorary Doctor of Letters degree, hailed by President Wayne A. I. Frederick as a distinguished figure with an unparalleled commitment to justice and humanity's progress.

Embracing the same rhetoric that defined his 2020 campaign, President Biden emphasized the current moment as a critical juncture for the nation's soul and urged the graduates to take the lead in shaping a brighter future. With pressing questions about the nation's identity and values, President Biden called upon the graduates to contribute their voices in shaping the answers.

Watch his speech below:

One graduate was NOT feeling POTUS and quietly made it known:

Yikes.

BONUS:

 

Essence Ventures CEO Caroline Wanga delivered the Dillard University commencement address where she had the graduating class recite Meek Mill lyrics. Peep the clip above.

Photos: Instagram