Sherrilyn Ifill Receives Prestigious Honorary Degree from Princeton University: A Celebration of Leadership and Justice

On May 27, 2025, Princeton University celebrated its commencement by honoring six distinguished individuals with honorary degrees. Among them was Sherrilyn Ifill, awarded a Doctor of Laws.

Sherrilyn Ifill is a prominent figure in civil rights law. She’s known for her visionary leadership and has made significant strides in advocating for justice. Ifill is the first holder of the Vernon E. Jordan, Jr. Endowed Chair in Civil Rights at Howard University School of Law. She previously led the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund from 2013 to 2022, where she played a crucial role during a time of national unrest.

Ifill’s impressive background includes over 20 years as a law professor at the University of Maryland. She’s been recognized with numerous awards, including a spot on TIME Magazine’s 2021 list of the “100 Most Influential People in the World.” Her notable works include “On the Courthouse Lawn,” which addresses the legacy of lynching.

Her experience extends beyond academia. Ifill began her journey in civil rights at the American Civil Liberties Union and has been a senior fellow at the Ford Foundation. Recently, she has focused on training future leaders in justice through her role at the 14th Amendment Center.

The impact of her work is significant. A recent survey shows that over 70% of Americans believe racial inequality remains a major issue. Ifill’s efforts and those of her peers provide hope for the future as they inspire the next generation.

In a world grappling with social justice issues, Sherrilyn Ifill stands out as a powerful advocate for change. Her legacy is not just in her achievements but in the lives she touches and the leaders she nurtures.

For more about Sherrilyn Ifill and her work, check out the Princeton University announcement here.

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