R&B icon Usher Raymond IV is set to take center stage at Emory University’s 180th Commencement as the keynote speaker, where he will also receive an honorary doctorate of humane letters.

The Grammy-winning artist shared his excitement about the opportunity. “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 said in a statement. “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.”

University President Gregory L. Fenves praised Usher’s impact, stating, “There are few artists in the history of popular music who have innovated as ceaselessly as Usher.”

The r&b veteran will take the Emory Quadrangle stage to inspire graduates on May 12, 2025.

Pharrell Williams’ Black Ambition is back for its fifth year, continuing its mission to close wealth gaps and empower underrepresented entrepreneurs. Applications for the 2025 Black Ambition Prize Competition are now open. The competition offers more than $1 million in funding to up to 25 visionary founders.

The competition seeks innovators in consumer products and services, healthcare, media and entertainment, technology, and AI. Selected entrepreneurs will participate in an intensive 12-week program, refining their business strategies through mentorship and industry connections.

This year’s competition will welcome 150-200 semifinalists into a three-month mentorship program, narrowing down to 40 finalists for public voting and pitch training. Ultimately, 20 winners will secure funding and expert coaching. The 5th Annual Black Ambition Demo Day is set for November.

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The “Shrek” franchise is officially expanding, and it just gained a major star. 

According to a post on the film’s official Instagram account, Emmy and Golden Globe-winning actress Zendaya has joined the cast of “Shrek 5,” slated for release in late 2026. Fans got their first taste of Zendaya’s character on Thursday with the release of a teaser clip. 

The upcoming film will arrive 16 years after the last principal installment, “Shrek Forever After.” This installment will reunite the original crew—including Eddie Murphy, who will reprise his role as Donkey.

Queen Latifah is set to take the stage at the 2025 Academy Awards for a heartfelt tribute to the legendary Quincy Jones. The announcement was made by Oscars executive producer Raj Kapoor, who described the moment as a carefully curated celebration of Jones' extraordinary legacy.

“We’ve planned and curated this beautiful moment that we hope will uplift the room, that will celebrate the spirit of Quincy and all of his greatness,” Kapoor shared, adding that it will be a “very celebratory” performance.

Jones, a pioneering force in music and media, passed away in November 2024 at the age of 91, following a battle with pancreatic cancer. Hosted by Conan O’Brien, the 2025 Oscars will air live on ABC and stream on Hulu on Sunday, March 2, at 7 p.m. ET. Other musical performers include Doja Cat, Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, RAYE, and LISA of Blackpink.

Big Sean is celebrating his birthday by giving back to his hometown. The Detroit rapper has partnered with the Detroit Pistons to support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan, offering fans a special opportunity to contribute while catching a game.

When the Pistons take on the San Antonio Spurs on March 25, fans can purchase an exclusive ticket package that includes a limited-edition Big Sean bobblehead. Proceeds benefit the Pistons Foundation’s efforts for local youth programs. The first 100 buyers will also receive a signed copy of Sean’s new book, Go Higher, and a post-game meet-and-greet to discuss the project.

This initiative is the latest in Sean’s ongoing relationship with the Pistons. Since being named the team’s Creative Director of Innovation in 2020, he’s helped shape their cultural impact—overseeing everything from merchandise design to in-game experiences.

Tickets for the event are available now.

New Orleans legend Percy "Master P" Miller has been named President of Basketball Operations for the University of New Orleans (UNO) Privateers men’s basketball team, bringing his deep-rooted passion for the game and his hometown to the program.

“This is a tremendously exciting day for the future of New Orleans Privateers basketball,” said head coach Stacy Hollowell in a statement emphasizing Miller’s commitment to the city, university, and team. “We will benefit from his basketball knowledge and his relationships within the city and the game.”

A multi-hyphenate entrepreneur, rapper, and philanthropist, Miller also has an impressive basketball background. He played college ball at Houston and Merritt College, competed in the CBA, and had NBA stints with the Charlotte Hornets and Toronto Raptors. As a longtime coach, his AAU team, P. Miller's Ballers, produced stars like DeMar DeRozan and Brandon Jennings.

“Basketball changed and saved my life,” Miller reflected. “As President of Basketball Operations, I’m committed to restoring Privateer Nation’s winning tradition while creating future leaders.”