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Tracy Chapman
Tufts
President Lawrence S. Bacow awarded Tracy Chapman an honorary
degree during the University's 2004 Commencement ceremonies on
Sunday, May 23, 2004.
[Biography
| Honorary Degree]
Medford/Somerville, Mass. [05-23-04] Tracy
Chapman, Tufts alumna and four-time Grammy award winner, during
your undergraduate years, you took your guitar, honest voice and
the wisdom of your soul to Harvard Square, and soon you won the
devotion of Boston’s folk club scene. Today, your voice
is heard around the world. You speak to our hearts and minds,
writing and singing the stories of hard-pressed people whom society
otherwise might easily forget.
You are one
of America’s most socially conscious singer-songwriters;
the recognition is richly deserved. Your music underscores the
importance of conscience and reveals the power of poetry. The
strength of your message resonates across borders and cultures.
Generously, you lend your voice in support of many good causes,
reminding audiences of important world issues that together we
can resolve. You demonstrate a commitment to active citizenship
that Tufts applauds, and with quiet force, you challenge us to
make a difference in the world, as individuals and as a global
community.
Tracy Chapman,
your songs move our society forward, and we hope your message
carries far. Your music make us feel and think, and motivates
us to act. For your many artistic accomplishments and your passionate
social conscience, Tufts University welcomes you home and proudly
presents to you the degree of Doctor of Fine Arts, honoris
causa.

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