Oprah Winfrey told Howard University's class of 2007 in a highly anticipated Commencement address: "I was told before I came, ""You're going to feel the love at Howard University,"" I'm feeling it today,"
An openly joyful Oprah received an Honorary Doctor of Humanities degree at the May 12 Ceremony. "Find out what gives you juice; nobody can tell you what that is," she told the graduates. "Follow your calling."
Howard University President, H. Patrick Swygert, presented her with the honor and declared her a "citizen of the universe," and said: "We now name you a daughter of Howard University."
"You can receive a lot of awards in your life, but there is nothing better than to be honored by your own." Winfrey said and appeared to pause to keep her emotions in check.
Oprah urged the graduates to continue the legacy of "truth and service," honoring their distinct callings as well as their Creator, remembering the less privileged. She indicated that they should build bridges while continuing their education. Change is possible with education.
She pressed graduates to go out and mentor a child to help alleviate the "crisis with black youth," and affectionately mentioned her recently founded Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa as an effort to save a child's life.
"I speak of what is possible, and I am a symbol of what is possible when you dream in your own life," she said.
"Don't expect the perfect job right away," she added.
"Be grateful to be on your path; only by being grateful do you allow space for more blessings."
Oprah, a Mississippi native, also recited the story of her grandmother, a servant in 1950s Mississippi, whose hope for young Oprah was that she'd "get some good white folks" to work for someday.
"I regret that she didn't live past 1963 and see that I did get some really good white folks - working for me," Winfrey said.
"My integrity is not for sale, and neither is yours. Do not be a slave to any form of selling out."
Oprah Winfrey has established philanthropic efforts through the Oprah Winfrey Foundation, Oprah's Angel Network and the Oprah Winfrey Academy for Girls in South Africa.