Northwestern University will award honorary degrees to four prominent individuals during its 167th Commencement ceremony on June 15 at the United Center in Chicago. The recipients are poet Toi Derricotte, Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Lisa Franchetti, biochemist and cell biologist Marc W. Kirschner, and actor and comedian Steve Carell, who will also serve as the commencement speaker.
“Together, this year’s honorary degree recipients — Steve Carell, Toi Derricotte, Admiral Lisa Franchetti and Marc W. Kirschner — have achieved distinction through their special contributions to society in the fields of the performing arts, writing, research and public service,” said Northwestern President Michael Schill.
Toi Derricotte will receive an honorary Doctor of Arts degree. She is a poet known for her six collections of poetry including “I”: New and Selected Poems and “Tender.” Derricotte co-founded Cave Canem in 1996 to support Black poets. She holds degrees from Wayne State University and New York University.
Admiral Lisa Franchetti will be awarded an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree. A Northwestern alumna from 1985, she has held numerous command positions in the Navy with extensive operational experience. Franchetti has been recognized with several awards including the Northwestern Alumni Medal.
Marc W. Kirschner will receive an honorary Doctor of Sciences degree. A graduate of Northwestern, he has made significant contributions to cell biology and systems biology research at Harvard University. Kirschner's accolades include membership in prestigious scientific societies.
Steve Carell will be honored with an honorary Doctor of Arts degree. Known for his work in film and television such as "The Office" and "The 40-Year-Old Virgin," Carell began his career with The Second City in Chicago before gaining fame on "The Daily Show." He continues to be active in both comedic and dramatic roles across various media platforms.