During its 2022 Commencement ceremonies in Durham, North Carolina, America’s Duke University conferred honorary doctorate degrees to four recipients on Sunday.
Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank Group and recipient of the World Food Prize; rocket scientist, businesswoman, and former non-profit leader Sylvia Acevedo, who currently serves on the board of Qualcomm, a global leader in semiconductors and wireless technology; Patrick Brown, founder and Chief Visionary Officer of Impossible Foods, a leading producer of meat and dairy products from plants; and Tom Catena, the medical director, and sole sui
Adesina was awarded an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters for his agricultural career accomplishments and the innovative High 5 development priorities for Africa, which he conceived shortly after being elected President of the continent’s premier development finance institution in 2015.
The academic council of the university unanimously recommended Adesina as a recipient. “Yours has been a truly extraordinary career—you have fought to eradicate poverty and improve living conditions in Africa, and your bravery and commitment have inspired countless people around the world,” Duke University President Vincent E. Price said of Adesina. I am confident that your example will inspire our graduates to pursue careers of equal purpose and principle.”
Adesina expressed his gratitude to Duke University for the honor. “Being awarded an honorary degree is always a tremendous honor.” This honor is a reward for all who have worked tirelessly to accelerate Africa’s development and ensure that millions of Africans thrive and reach their full potential.”
Duke University, founded in 1838, is one of the top universities in the United States.
