Congratulations Dr. Combs!
Diddy [aka Sean Combs] received an honorary doctorate degree from Howard University along with an invite to give the commencement speech at this years graduate ceremony. While there was many applause from the students and Diddy’s family [all of whom were in attendance] many people were shocked by the university’s public homage of the music mogul.
Dr. Frederick awarded Diddy with an honorary speech and degree in doctorate of humanities saying:
” Sean Combs, dynamic ground-breaking…. , Creative visionary, dedicated humanitarian and innovative philanthropist. Your supreme commitment to excellence, servant leadership and a solid work ethic have propelled you to the forefront of the world of business for over two decades. Now as chairman, chief executive officer and founder of Combs Enterprises; one of the preeminent groups of companies and brands worldwide. ”
” Recently named one of the ‘most influential’ people in the world by both ‘TIMES Magazine and CNN. Your renown reputation as a master brand builder, pop cultural icon, and advocate for youth education and entrepreneurship, is one of your stellar hallmarks. “
” Your unique life’s work to date and ‘vital’ contributions to America and the ‘global’ community epitomize and cherishes the core values of the capstone; leadership, excellence, truth and service. It is with immense respect and upmost pride that we honor you, a true son of Howard on the historic occasion of our 146th commencement as convocation orator and name you a beloved son of the capstone as we confer upon you the degree of doctor of humanities honoruas causer – Congratulations Doctor Combs. “
Then Diddy took to the podium.
Diddy talked about his mother’s sacrifices and protection she gave by not telling him the real reason his father had passed on. Diddy also talked about his appreciation of his longtime and current friendship with Harv Pierre, Mark Pitts, Derek Angletti. who gave him a place to stay while at Howard, and later supported him a when decided to work at Uptown Records, running the NYC marathons with only two weeks of preparation, reassuring the crowd that you cannot achieve success with out failure.
Diddy shared his regret of completing only two years of college and getting fired from his first dream job after purchasing a home in Scarsdale with a baby on the way with his first girlfriend.
Now there were parts [some say] where Diddy seemed self-centered.
Diddy thanked the board of trustees, then provided a shout-out. Diddy said [to the crowd] thank you for being apart of this journey with ‘me’ – Uh Oh! Did Diddy not know there were other graduates there?
At one point, Diddy asked the crowd to join in for an applause, then ushered back to the podium where he then recited the intro line to Biggie’s “Juicy” track followed by sentences that ended with hashtag ‘be clear’ and “bringbackourgirls”announcement statement. Diddy had recognized that he was going off topic but he reverted back to himself a few times thereafter.
It may not have been the most intellectual commencement speech of our time but at least it was his truth.
You can listen the Diddy’s full acceptance speech following the 2:45 min mark.