Grammy Award-winning performer and philanthropist Usher Raymond IV will deliver the keynote address at Emory University’s 180th Commencement, scheduled for Monday, May 12, on the Emory Quadrangle. The renowned artist, known in his music career simply as Usher, will receive an honorary doctor of humane letters degree during the ceremony.

“There are few artists in the history of popular music who have innovated as ceaselessly as Usher,” says Emory President Gregory L. Fenves. “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.”

At age 12, Usher moved to Atlanta with his family to pursue his dream of musical success. Now one of the best-selling artists in music history, he has sought ways to give back and help young people achieve their goals, including working in partnership with Emory.

Since his self-titled debut in 1994, at age 15, the artist has been widely considered a standard bearer of R&B. Winner of eight Grammy Awards, he has charted nine career No. 1 songs on the Billboard Hot 100, including hits like “U Got it Bad,” “Yeah!,” “Burn,” “My Boo” and “OMG.” Following blockbuster Las Vegas residencies from 2021-2023 with 100 sold-out shows, Usher headlined the 2024 Apple Music Super Bowl Halftime Show. Beyond the musical stage, he has appeared on Broadway, in primetime television shows like “The Voice” and in more than a dozen feature films.

“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 says. “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.”

Since 1999, Usher has served as founding chair of Usher’s New Look (UNL), an Atlanta-based nonprofit organization which has encouraged more than 55,000 under-resourced teens to identify their passions, develop their whole selves, finish their education and serve others.

Starting in middle school, students are introduced to servant leadership, financial literacy, exploring career paths and the importance of education through a day-long “Powered by Service” intensive leadership program in collaboration with Emory’s Goizueta Business School.

The organization’s Leadership Academy for high school students is a four-year, 400-hour training program focused on graduation, college preparation and service, while the post-secondary Moguls in Training program provides a virtual college and career support system. According to UNL, 100% of Leadership Academy participants graduate high school, with 98% going on to college. Some 86% are first-generation college students.

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