Commencement speeches are more than just tradition; they’re often the final spark of motivation graduates receive before stepping into the real world. Over the years, HBCUs have tapped some of the most iconic voices to deliver these powerful send-offs, and 2025 was no different.
From Oprah Winfrey and Missy Elliott to Pharrell Williams and Kirk Franklin, these celebrated figures offered wisdom, real-world advice, and reminders of the power rooted in Black excellence.
This year, schools like Norfolk State University and Spelman College continued that tradition, bringing in award-winning actress Sheryl Lee Ralph and actress and advocate Taraji P. Henson to address their graduates.
Here’s a look at some of the most unforgettable HBCU commencement speeches that defined the Class of 2025.
Morris Brown College – Bishop T.D. Jakes
“What you’ve been looking for in other people is already inside of you.”
A word from none other than Bishop T.D. Jakes, who brought the house down during his stirring commencement address at Morris Brown College.
Bishop Jakes reminded the Class of 2025 that true strength comes from within, a message that deeply resonated with graduates, families, and faculty alike. As if his words weren’t enough, the pastor and 2025 Honorary Doctorate recipient surprised the college with a generous $100,000 donation following his speech.
A moment to remember. A legacy cemented.
Bishop T.D. Jakes | Morris Brown College 2025 Commencement
Spellman College– Taraji P. Henson
“You won’t be perfect. Perfection is the perfect lie.”
Those were the unforgettable words of Oscar winner and proud Howard University alum Taraji P. Henson, who delivered an empowering address at Spelman College’s 2025 Commencement.
With raw honesty, Henson left the Class of 2025 with more than just a diploma; she left them with truth, confidence, and a sense of purpose. Her speech was a reminder that striving for authenticity will always outshine chasing perfection.
Taraji P. Henson | Spelman College 2025 Commencement
Norfolk State University– Sheryl Lee Ralph
Emmy-winning actress and proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Sheryl Lee Ralph delivered more than just powerful words during Norfolk State University’s 2025 Commencement; she ignited a movement.
In a heartfelt speech, Ralph reminded graduates of their power, purpose, and potential. But she didn’t stop there. Her presence sparked a giving campaign aimed at supporting the next generation of Spartans,
Sheryl Lee Ralph | Norfolk State University 2025 Commencement
University of Arkansas Pine Bluff– Smokie Norful
Gospel artist and Pastor Smokie Norful returned to his alma mater, the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB), to bless the Class of 2025 with a heartfelt moment.
Before delivering words of motivation and encouragement, Norful gave graduates a powerful snippet of his hit “I Need You Now,” a reminder of faith through adversity.
Smokie Norful | University of Arkansas, Pine Bluff 2025 Commencement
Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University – Fawn Weaver
“You belong wherever God places you.”
A word from Fawn Weaver, founder and CEO of Uncle Nearest Whiskey, as she addressed the graduating class at Florida A&M University’s 2025 Commencement..
Fawn Weaver | FAMU 2025 Commencement
Ricky Smiley – Clinton College
“When you pass that test, God’s got something greater on the other side.”
A powerful word from Rickey Smiley, who delivered an emotional and inspiring speech at Clinton College’s 2025 Commencement.
Opening up about the heartbreaking loss of his son, Smiley reminded the graduates that strength isn’t about perfection; it’s about pushing through even when life hurts the most. His transparency brought both tears and triumph to the room.
Rickey Smiley | Clinton College 2025 Commencement
Kirk Franklin- Elizabeth State University
“Don’t expect the microwave version go through the process.”
Kirk Franklin delivered a passionate and real message at Elizabeth City State University’s 2025 Commencement.
Speaking on the value of patience, growth, and trusting the journey, Franklin reminded graduates that true success takes time — and that what’s built through process lasts longer than anything handed to you quickly.
Kirk Franklin | ECSU 2025 Commencement
