Taraji P. Henson Named Spelman College’s Keynote Speaker At This Year’s Commencement Ceremony, Will Also Receive An Honorary Doctorate

Taraji P. Henson Named Spelman College’s Keynote Speaker At This Year’s Commencement Ceremony, Will Also Receive An Honorary Doctorate

Taraji P. Henson has been named the keynote speaker for Spelman College’s 138th Commencement Ceremony, set for Sunday, May 18, at the Georgia International Convention Center.

The award-winning actress and mental health advocate will address the largest graduating class in the college’s history—694 students.

“Spelman College is deeply honored to welcome acclaimed actress and proud HBCU alumna Taraji P. Henson as the commencement speaker for the Class of 2025,” said Interim President Rosalind “Roz” Brewer. In addition to her address, Henson will receive an honorary Doctor of Fine Arts degree.

Known for roles in “Hidden Figures,” “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,” and “The Color Purple,” Taraji P. Henson also founded the Boris L. Henson Foundation to promote mental wellness in Black communities.

Joining the commencement weekend is Dr. Thema Bryant, noted scholar and former president of the American Psychological Association. The ceremony will celebrate four co-valedictorians and one salutatorian.