Rapper E-40 has returned to his alma mater, Grambling State University in Louisiana, to accept an honorary doctorate degree.
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Over the weekend (May 12), the “I Stand On That” artist appeared at the commencement ceremony to address the graduating class of 2023, while also adding a new title to his name – Dr. E-40.
The historically Black university granted the platinum-selling artist with a certificate in music. The prestigious recognition comes shortly after E-40 gave the school a generous donation of $100,000 to the music department in February 2022. The contribution benefited their world-renowned marching band and other programs within the school of music.
“E-40 has used his success as a recording artist to create an entrepreneurial empire,” shared GSU President Rick Gallot in a recent news release. “We are so grateful that he is giving back to his alma mater in such a substantial way. Our current and future students will benefit from his investment in our state-of-the-art student recording studio.”
While dressed in a cap and gown, Dr. E-40 shared his gratitude with the hopefuls and go-getters that sat before him.
“This means so much to me, man. I’ve come a long way,” said the musician in his speech. “It’s with great honor and gratitude that I accept this honorary doctorate in music. I would like to express my appreciation to the administration and academic community of Grambling State University.”
The hitmaker known for his chart-topping tracks “Captain Save a Hoe,” “Tell Me When to Go” with Keak da Sneak, and “U and Dat” featuring T-Pain, turned to social media to share the exciting news and to give a glimpse of the milestone.
This is far from the first time E-40 has displayed his Tiger pride, as he recently featured the school’s marching band in the music video for “Bands.”
Photo by Tim Mosenfelder/Getty Images
