This week Shaquille O’ Neal received his doctoral degree from Barry University in Florida. No- This was not an honorary degree bestowed by his alma mater (for the record Dr. O’ Neal attended Louisiana State University. Nor did he donate a huge sum of money to this small catholic university in Miami Shores.
Shaq earned an education doctorate in Organizational Learning and Leadership. Yes, the NBA all- star, and sometime rapper actually went to class and wrote a dissertation. His topic was” How Leaders Utilize Humor or Seriousness in Leadership Styles.” In a recent commentary O’Neal penned for USA Today he emphasized the importance of education. He said “If there is one thing I hope people take from this personal milestone, it’s that education matters for your entire life. A degree, whether high school or doctoral is not a finish line: it’ simply a mile marker.”
O’ Neal joins some other impressive company. Well known comedian Bill Cosby received his earned doctorate from Temple University in Philadelphia. He has used his education to also motivate young people, especially minorities to stay in school and complete their education.
While the likes of Bill Gates are often touted as being successful despite dropping out of college, award winning film maker Steven Spielberg, took time out of his busy schedule to complete his undergraduate degree at few years ago at California State University at Long Beach.
As we approach graduation season, please share these success stories with your students. Encourage them to stay in school and strive to achieve as far as they can reach.
Congratulations and best wishes for success to Dr. O’ Neal.
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