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.