Stevie Wonder Receives Honorary Doctorate Degree from Yale [VIDEO]
You can now call him Dr. Wonder. On Monday (May 22), Stevie Wonder received an honorary Doctorate of Music at Yale University’s commencement in New Haven, Conn. Yale President Peter Salovey introduced Wonder with a tributary speech that included references to his classic songs.
"You have always sung to us in the 'Key of Life,' while working to help the poor, sick and marginalized," Salovey said (via Hartford Courant). "Whether you were 'Living for the City' or speaking up for 'Misrepresented People,' you brought us to 'Higher Ground,' with your incisive protest songs."
"Sorcerer of song, in appreciation of your irresistible music and your courageous humanitarian efforts, we are proud to present you with this Doctor of Music degree," he continued. "Signed, sealed, delivered -- it's yours!"
Prior to the commencement, a Yale spokeswoman said that Wonder brought his own instrument into the library and played a couple of songs, including "You Are the Sunshine Of My Life."
When asked how he felt receiving an honorary degree from Yale, Wonder replied, "I'm truly honored. Thank you very much."
Stevie Wonder was one of eight distinguished guests who received honorary degrees at the ceremony, including U.S. rep civil-rights leader John Lewis and former Secretary of State John Kerry.