Howard University announced Thursday that LeVar Burton, the Emmy-winning actor and lifelong literacy champion whose work has inspired generations of readers and viewers alike, will deliver the keynote address at Howard University’s 157th commencement ceremony.

Set to take place May 10, 2025, on Howard’s iconic Yard, the ceremony will mark a momentous close to the academic year with a speaker whose life and legacy are deeply rooted in the power of storytelling, education, and cultural pride.

Burton first rose to prominence in 1977 as Kunta Kinte in the groundbreaking miniseries Roots, a performance that catapulted him into the pantheon of cultural trailblazers. He later cemented his place in the hearts of millions as Reading Rainbow's longtime host and executive producer. This PBS program helped ignite a passion for reading in children nationwide.

His deep commitment to education and representation has earned him numerous accolades, including a Peabody Award, 12 Daytime Emmys, and the PEN/Faulkner Literary Champion Award. Most recently, Burton has gained renewed popularity as an outspoken advocate for intellectual freedom and diversity in literature, particularly amid the ongoing wave of book bans targeting works by Black authors and LGBTQ+ voices. 

Howard University’s commencement is known not only for its academic significance but also for its cultural resonance. Past speakers have included Barack Obama, Chadwick Boseman, Kamala Harris, and Taraji P. Henson—individuals who, like Burton, embody excellence and empowerment.

“Graduates from the university’s 14 schools and colleges will be among the largest graduating classes in the university’s history to receive bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in various disciplines,” a statement from Howard University reads. “The individual colleges and schools will also hold awards and recognition ceremonies for their respective graduates May 7-10.” 

As the countdown begins for commencement day, one thing is clear: LeVar Burton’s presence on the Yard will be more than a speech—it will celebrate legacy, imagination, and Black excellence.