Harvard, the prestigious Ivy League university, has announced that two-time Oscar winner and legendary actor Tom Hanks will be the keynote speaker at its graduation ceremony on May 25th. This announcement has been met with great excitement, as Hanks is widely regarded as one of the greatest actors of all time.
A Master of His Craft
Harvard President, Larry Bacow, expressed his excitement about Hanks' appearance, saying, “A true master of his craft, Tom Hanks has given life to some of the most compelling, beloved, and iconic characters on the screen.
Over five decades, he has entertained, enlightened, and befriended us. He has made us laugh, cry, question, and think. In addition to his brilliance as an actor, Tom has demonstrated both an innate empathy and a deep understanding of the human condition." Bacow went on to highlight Hanks' contributions to national culture and his ability to bring new perspectives to previously unexamined stories and histories.
He concluded by saying, "I very much look forward to his address in May."
A Legacy of Excellence
Hanks has appeared in nearly a hundred films and has been nominated for an Oscar six times, winning the award for best actor for his roles in "Philadelphia" in 1993 and "Forrest Gump" the following year.
He is also highly regarded for his philanthropic work, supporting organizations such as the National World War II Museum in Washington and serving as chairman of the Hidden Heroes Campaign, which raises awareness of the issues facing caregivers who work with veterans.
In addition to his Oscar wins, Hanks has received numerous other awards, including the Cecil B. DeMille Award, the American Film Institute Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom, which was presented to him by former President Barack Obama in 2016.
Harvard's graduation ceremony is set to be a memorable event, with Tom Hanks delivering the keynote address. As one of the most beloved and respected actors of our time, his words are sure to inspire and captivate the audience.