Harvard University Celebrates Tom Hanks With Honorary Doctorate

Acclaimed actor, Tom Hanks, delivered a commencement address at Harvard University, receiving an honorary doctorate of arts and urging students to stand against indifference.

The movie star studied theater at Chabot College and graduated from California State University before starting his successful acting career, spanning over 40 years and earning him two Academy Awards.

Hanks and his wife, Rita Wilson, recently appeared at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival for the world premiere of their film "Asteroid City," directed by Wes Anderson, which received a lengthy standing ovation.

Keep on reading to learn more.

Renowned actor Tom Hanks recently captivated the audience at Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, as he graced the commencement ceremony to deliver a unique address.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the arts, the Ivy League institution bestowed upon Hanks an honorary doctorate of arts. With his signature wit, the "Cast Away" actor playfully quipped about receiving the prestigious degree "without having done a lick of work, without having spent any time in class, without once walking into that library."

"I don't know much about Latin, I have no real passion for enzymes, and global public policy is something I scan in the newspaper just before I do the Wordle," he humorously remarked to the graduating students. However, Hanks delivered a more profound message amid the laughter, encouraging the young graduates to defy the "indifference of a people who have been made weary by struggle."

In a powerful speech with nods to iconic superheroes like Superman, Hanks passionately conveyed the impact of indifference during his address to the graduating class. He explained, "Indifference makes citizens into indentured servants held in labor by the despots and tyrants whose default setting is cynicism, who outlawed dissent and ban art, dialogue, and books."

While speaking to the eager graduates, the 66-year-old emphasized that the pivotal decision that needs to be made lies at the core of every day, every year, and every generation. "Every day, every year, and for every graduating class, there is a choice to be made," he said.

"It's the same option for all grown-ups who have to decide to be one of three types of Americans: those who embrace liberty and freedom for all, those who won't, or those who are indifferent. Only the first do the work of creating a perfect union, a nation indivisible. The others get in the way."

During Hanks' visit to Harvard University, the Ivy League institution seized the opportunity to pay homage to his illustrious career. The institution presented Hanks with a Harvard-branded volleyball as a nod to his iconic portrayal in the 2000 film "Cast Away."

Adding an extra layer of entertainment, the talented students of Hasty Pudding, Harvard's renowned theatrical group, graced the stage to deliver a lively and spirited performance that celebrated Hanks' remarkable contributions to the world of cinema.

The anticipation surrounding Hanks' appearance had been building since March when Harvard proudly announced him as the esteemed speaker for the 2023 commencement ceremony. In a statement, per People, University President Larry Bacow expressed his admiration for the actor, saying that he has "contributed to our national culture and expanded our ability to appreciate stories and histories that have been previously unexamined."

In a display of star power, Hanks, and his beloved wife of 35 years, the talented producer and actress Rita Wilson, made a captivating appearance at the prestigious 2023 Cannes Film Festival. The couple graced the red carpet for the highly awaited world premiere of their movie, "Asteroid City."

The film, directed by Wes Anderson, received an enthusiastic standing ovation that lasted almost six minutes after its premiere at the international film festival. "Asteroid City" will be released in select theaters on June 16 before a nationwide release on June 23.

Hanks' illustrious career trajectory can be traced back to his early days when he studied theater at Chabot College. He later graduated from California State University in Sacramento, California, setting the stage for a remarkable acting journey over four decades. 

Over the years, Hanks has garnered two coveted Academy Awards, solidifying his status as a true icon of the silver screen.