A teacher once told Ashley McBryde her dream of moving from her small hometown in Arkansas to Nashville to be a songwriter was stupid. The teacher told her to be realistic and come up with a backup plan. Fortunately, that didn’t stifle her dream, love of music, or desire for education. Now, years later, she’s a beloved figure in the country music world, a Grammy Award winner, and a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Next month, she’ll receive an Honorary Doctorate in Music from Arkansas State University.
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McBryde’s passion for music never faltered. She played in her high school marching band. Then, she attended Arkansas State University to study music. She hoped to become a band director. Then, another educator stepped up to offer an opinion on her career path. Her professor encouraged her to chase her dream of being an artist. On May 10, she’ll attend her Alma Mater’s Spring 2025 Commencement Ceremony at First National Bank Arena in Jonesboro, Arkansas, to receive her honorary doctorate.
Ashley McBryde on Receiving an Honorary Doctorate in Music
Ashley McBryde spoke about how much the honor means to her in a press release. “Everybody called my dad Doc, and everybody called his dad Doc. I always wondered what that felt like–the pride that filled their chests when they were addressed by that title,” she shared. “I am beyond grateful and so humbly honored to be recognized by my Alma Mater with a Doctorate in Music. To know I now carry that title in a field that has been my life’s passion and purpose is a feeling I will cherish forever,” she added.
Todd Shields, Chancellor at Arkansas State University, also weighed in on the achievement. “Arkansas State University is incredibly proud of Ashley McBryde, and I am honored she is part of our ‘Red Wold Pack,’” he shared. “Her courage to pursue her dreams, her exceptional accomplishments, and the positive influence she has among so many people are deeply inspiring. She absolutely deserves this recognition, and I am very excited to award her the title of Dr. McBryde.”
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