Notes on Chadwick Boseman's Speech at Howard University

Chadwick Boseman's Recognition and Background

• Chadwick Aaron Boseman receives honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters.
• Notable roles and contributions:
  • Jackie Robinson in 42
  • James Brown in Get On Up
  • Thurgood Marshall in Marshall
  • T’Challa/Black Panther in Black Panther and Avengers: Infinity War
• Educational Background:
  • Bachelor of Fine Arts in directing from Howard University.
  • Mentored by Felicia Rashad.
  • Attended British American Drama Academy in London.
  • Began career teaching drama.

Experiences and Lessons at Howard

• Personal anecdote about meeting Muhammad Ali on campus.
• Describes Howard as the "Hilltop," symbolic of intellectual and spiritual journey.
• Discusses challenges faced by students:
  • Academic, financial, and social difficulties.
  • Overcoming personal trauma and acceptance issues.

The Importance of Realizations and Triumphs

• Emphasizes the need to savor and reflect on achievements.
• Encourages students to look back on their journey and appreciate their progress.

Protest and Activism at Howard

• Recalls student protests during his time at Howard.
• Praises current student activism and administration's cooperation.
• Encourages continued engagement and improvement of the university.

Challenges and Integrity in the Arts

• Shares a story about a conflicted role in a soap opera.
• Raised questions about stereotypes and was eventually let go.
• Reflects on the importance of maintaining integrity.

Overcoming Adversity

• Emphasizes learning from failures and challenges.
• Mentions how professors at Howard prepared him for real-world challenges.
• Quotes Jeremiah: "I know the plans I have for you..."

Advice to Graduates

• Encourages finding purpose over just jobs or careers.
• Purpose is an essential element and is tied to destiny.
• Invites graduates to choose paths with challenges for greater meaning.
• Closes with encouragement to press on with pride and purpose, and love for Howard University.