Congratulations are in order for Missy Elliott, as she’s just received another honorary doctorate!
The honor was bestowed upon Missy over the weekend at Norfolk State University’s December 2022 commencement ceremony. Notably, The Virginian-Pilot reports that both of Missy’s parents attended the HBCU, which is mere minutes away from her hometown of Portsmouth, Virginia.
Elliott, who delivered the commencement address, expressed how excited she was about the honor through an Instagram upload.
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“Two time Doctorate ‘Dr. Elliott’ I am so Humbly Grateful. Thank you @norfolkstateuniversityfor having me today & showing so much love.”
During her speech, Missy emphasized how “major” the grads’ accomplishment was.
“I want you to look at each other and say, ‘You already wonYou already won.’ Let ’em know! Ain’t no winning, you already the one. ‘Cause y’all coulda been doing anything else the last few years, y’all coulda been wildin’ out, but y’all decided to finish the course. And that’s major.”
In addition to her powerful words, Missy also cut Norfolk State a $20,000 check, which is to go to “the area of greatest needs.”
https://www.instagram.com/p/CmCC7yGOQvf/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
The Berklee College Of Music Awarded Her An Honorary Degree In 2019
Missy Elliott received her first honorary doctorate alongside Justin Timberlake, as both stars were honored by the Berklee College of Music during its May 2019 commencement ceremony. Berklee alum Alex Lacamoire, a composer who worked on projects like Hamilton, also received an honorary doctorate.
According to the institution, the recipients were selected for “their achievements and influences in music, and for their enduring global impact.”
https://www.instagram.com/p/BxVPNleASIg/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Missy Elliott Was Just Honored With A Street In Her Hometown
While speaking on Missy receiving her flowers, we should point out that the city of Portsmouth recently honored her as well.
As The Shade Room previously reported, the Portsmouth City Council unanimously voted to name a boulevard after the rapper earlier this year. Missy gleefully acknowledged the privilege on social media, noting that she was “so HUMBLY GRATEFUL to be from P-TOWN.”
On top of “Missy Elliott Boulevard,” the rapper also received her very own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame just last year. Talk about being booked and busy!
Shoutout to Missy Elliott and the illustrious Norfolk State University, and we’re glad to see her work being honored!
