Chance the Rapper will deliver the commencement address at Dillard University in New Orleans next month.

Dillard President Dr. Walter M. Kimbrough, who teaches a class on ethics and hip-hop, has been trying to get Chance to speak on campus for two years, reports The Chicago Tribune.

He noted that Chance has become successful despite not being signed to a record label and appreciates the rapper’s openness about his Christian faith. Kimbrough mentioned that the rapper commonly gives prizes like movie tickets and Jordans to school teachers.

“He's not signed but a multiple Grammy winner," Kimbrough said. “He's the artist that your grandmother would love."

He also praised the Chicago-born rapper for his activism. Chance has been involved in a number of social justice projects including raising $4 million for the Chicago Public School System and using the tag #savechicago to stop gun violence in the city for 42 hours.

“The activism is a bonus with Chance," Kimbrough said. "I thought he made for a great commencement speaker because of his spirit of being entrepreneurial and authentic. But his civic engagement, including encouraging people to vote and willingness to speak out on issues, like his recent opposition to a Heineken ad, are just as paramount."

The ceremony is scheduled for Saturday, May 12, at 8 a.m. at Avenue of the Oaks on Dillard's campus.

dr. walter m. kimbrough

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