Howard University has been having a rough time lately with its financial aid scandal and the student protests that erupted from it. However, on May 12, 2018, students at the storied HBCU will welcome some black joy into their lives. 

Howard University president Dr. Wayne A. I. Frederick has announced that the Black Panther himself, Chadwick Boseman, will deliver the commencement address at Howard's 150th Commencement Ceremony. 

Aside from being timely, the speaker himself is fitting — Boseman is a Howard alum. Boseman also portrayed Howard alum Thurgood Marshall in the courtroom biopic, Marshall. 

“It is an incredible honor and privilege for the Howard University community to welcome back home one of its native sons, Chadwick Boseman, to deliver the 2018 commencement address,” Frederick wrote in a press release sent to Blavity. “He has played some of the most iconic African Americans that have transformed history, including Jackie Robinson, James Brown and Howard’s own Thurgood Marshall. His recent role in the blockbuster film Black Panther reminds us of the excellence found in the African diaspora and how places like Howard are hidden, untapped gems producing the next generation of scientists, engineers and doctors. Mr. Boseman exemplifies the monumental heights and levels Howard graduates can achieve by using the skills and knowledge they acquired at the university.”

“I’m excited to return to the Mecca in celebration of the achievements of our illustrious students,” Boseman said. “Let’s listen, learn and build with one another.”

Howard will grant Boseman the University's highest honor, an honorary degree, Doctor of Humane Letters.

“We are extremely pleased that Chadwick Boseman has accepted our invitation to address the class of 2018,” said Howard University Board of Trustees chair Stacey J. Mobley. “His words as one who has walked the same halls as our graduates will truly resonate and inspire them to reach for the stars.”

We certainly can't wait to see footage of this speech! It shall be epic!