Rapper E-40 Receives Honorary Doctorate from Grambling State University

Rapper E-40 has returned to his alma mater, Grambling State University in Louisiana, to accept an honorary doctorate degree. 

Over the weekend (May 12), the “I Stand On That” artist appeared at the commencement ceremony to address the graduating class of 2023, while also adding a new title to his name – Dr. E-40. 

The historically Black university granted the platinum-selling artist with a certificate in music. The prestigious recognition comes shortly after E-40 gave the school a generous donation of $100,000 to the music department in February 2022. The contribution benefited their world-renowned marching band and other programs within the school of music. 

“E-40 has used his success as a recording artist to create an entrepreneurial empire,” shared GSU President Rick Gallot in a recent news release. “We are so grateful that he is giving back to his alma mater in such a substantial way. Our current and future students will benefit from his investment in our state-of-the-art student recording studio.”

While dressed in a cap and gown, Dr. E-40 shared his gratitude with the hopefuls and go-getters that sat before him. 

“This means so much to me, man. I’ve come a long way,” said the musician in his speech. “It’s with great honor and gratitude that I accept this honorary doctorate in music. I would like to express my appreciation to the administration and academic community of Grambling State University.”

The hitmaker known for his chart-topping tracks “Captain Save a Hoe,” “Tell Me When to Go” with Keak da Sneak, and “U and Dat” featuring T-Pain, turned to social media to share the exciting news and to give a glimpse of the milestone.

This is far from the first time E-40 has displayed his Tiger pride, as he recently featured the school’s marching band in the music video for “Bands.” 

Photo by Tim Mosenfelder/Getty Images