As people come together to unite and uplift the graduating class of 2020 for reaching a monumental milestone while graduation ceremonies remain canceled, many celebrities are stepping up to share their wisdom, including the iconic Lauryn Hill.
The R&B singer wrote a letter to Temple University's graduating class in an effort to inspire, encourage and motivate, according to the school's website.
In the beautifully written letter, Hill congratulates the graduates for the major accomplishment.
"Congratulations for accomplishing what at times may have seemed a gargantuan task in the age of distraction—receiving a diploma for years of focus and commitment to scholarship," the 44-year-old wrote. "Make no mistake, our times aren't easy, but they aren't impossible to alter and positively affect either."
Although the coronavirus pandemic has forced families to alter their plans drastically, Hill referred to the historical moment as a time not to be taken in vain.
"For this time is indeed historic, and if we're paying attention, pregnant with purpose. Purpose is powerful. The work one puts his or her hands to with purpose attached, become charged, activated and often deeply meaningful," Hill said. "Purpose-filled acts can change lives, move communities and alter the course of history."
"Consider yourselves and work hard to be assets in whatever field, lane or space you find yourself. You can be living, breathing, and dynamic, solution, and possibility-makers. Do your best to contribute to the health of the world, to add to it and not subtract, BECAUSE, you can," Hill said.
The singer's letter was penned to the university's largest graduating class of 10,430 degree recipients. The university stated this is the third time it has seen a graduating class with more than 10,000 graduates in the school's history.
“We are incredibly proud of this class and they deserve tremendous congratulations from all of us at Temple,” President Richard M. Englert said.
The Grammy award-winning artist isn't the only celebrity helping students celebrate. Former President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama are hosting a virtual commencement ceremony for graduates, as Blavity previously reported.
The livestreamed event will feature Alicia Keys, Chloe x Halle, Jackie Aina, Kelly Rowland, Zendaya and Kerry Washington.
The former president, LeBron James, H.E.R., rapper Chika and Pharrell Williams will also be a part of a separate program geared toward celebrating graduates.
As if the father of two wasn't already helping to lead the charge in celebrating the class of 2020, Barack will also be taking part in an event specifically for HBCU graduates.
