The University will honor five distinguished individuals during Commencement this Thursday.
Geoffrey Hinton
Doctor of Science
Geoffrey Hinton is often called the Godfather of artificial intelligence (AI). He earned a Ph.D. in AI long before personal computers were common, back when the internet was still new. Hinton’s work on deep learning has shaped the AI landscape, but he now worries about its risks, including misuse and job loss. In 2023, he expressed concerns about AI becoming smarter than humans, a possibility he once thought was far off.
Hinton is not just a scientist; he is an advocate for responsible AI. After resigning from Google, he has called for urgent research on AI safety. He believes we must establish guidelines to manage this technology before it outpaces our ability to control it. He urged, “Let’s not scale up until we know how to manage it.”
Noel Malcolm
Doctor of Laws
Sir Noel Malcolm is recognized for his exceptional contributions to journalism and history. His work during the Balkan War helped clarify important historical narratives, countering propaganda that justified violence. Kosovar Prime Minister Albin Kurti praised Malcolm’s timely account of Albania and its people.
An Oxford scholar and author, Malcolm has written extensively about the Balkans, publishing works like “Bosnia: A Short History” and “Kosovo: A Short History.” His research helps clear misconceptions about the region’s history and culture. In addition to his wide-ranging scholarship, Malcolm was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2014 for his contributions to writing and public discourse.
Audra McDonald
Doctor of Arts
Audra McDonald is a Broadway icon with multiple awards, including six Tony Awards. She’s the only actor to win in all four acting categories. McDonald graduated from Juilliard and made her stage debut in “The Secret Garden.” Over the years, she has excelled in productions like “Ragtime” and “A Raisin in the Sun.”
Beyond theater, McDonald is an advocate for social justice. Her family’s involvement in the Civil Rights Movement inspired her to speak out for equality and support various causes, including LGBTQIA+ rights and efforts against human trafficking. McDonald believes in using her platform for good, stating, “You have to look out for your fellow man, woman, and child.”
Peggy Noonan
Doctor of Laws
Peggy Noonan has made her mark as a leading voice in American journalism. A Pulitzer Prize winner, she writes a well-known column in The Wall Street Journal. Her background in speechwriting for Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush highlights her role in shaping public discourse.
Noonan’s insightful commentary on politics and culture has resonated widely. She advocates for respectful dialogue, stating, “Democracy involves… working it out courteously.” Her books explore American identity and the political landscape, emphasizing values like respect and understanding.
Conan O’Brien
Doctor of Arts
Conan O’Brien is not just a celebrated comedian; he’s also a cultural icon known for his unique brand of humor. He began his career at Harvard, where he was president of the Harvard Lampoon. Since then, he has transitioned from writing on shows like “Saturday Night Live” to hosting various late-night programs.
O’Brien’s journey includes notable stints on “Late Night” and “Conan,” as well as hosting prestigious awards shows. He emphasizes the importance of kindness and hard work in finding success. His humorous outlook also includes a light-hearted take on life’s challenges: “When all else fails, there’s always delusion.”
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