Your tip
Your tip
RadarOnlineRadarOnline
or
Sign in with lockrMail

Dr. Oprah Winfrey Speaks To Duke Class of 2009

May 11 2009, Published 10:38 a.m. ET

RadarOnline CommentsLink to FacebookShare to XShare to FlipboardShare to Email

She's an iconic talk show host, Oscar-nominated actress and successful media entrepreneur. Now you can add "doctor" to Oprah Winfrey's laundry list of achievements.

Winfrey received an honorary doctor of humane letters degree from Duke University President Richard H. Brodhead, and imparted her valuable wisdom in a speech to 4,400 graduates during the Sunday ceremony at the university in Durham, N.C.

Article continues below advertisement

"How can I help somebody else move to higher ground? That is success," she said. "Each of us has to stand in our own shoes. Will you stand in them in humility and compassion and courage? Every day will give you a chance to make that choice."

She mentioned her Duke connection, her graduating godson, William Bumpus. His mother is Winfrey's well-known friend, Gayle King.

"You know, William never wants people to know that he knows me," she said. "I'm like the crazy aunt that they keep in the attic."

That's one crazy aunt we would like to have. Especially around Christmastime.

Radar Logo

Never Miss an

Exclusive

Daily updates from the heart of Hollywood, right to your inbox

By entering your email and clicking Sign Up, you’re agreeing to let us send you customized marketing messages about us and our advertising partners. You are also agreeing to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

READ MORE ON Celebrity

Opt-out of personalized ads

© Copyright 2025 RADAR ONLINE™️. A DIVISION OF MYSTIFY ENTERTAINMENT NETWORK INC. RADAR ONLINE is a registered trademark. All rights reserved. Registration on or use of this site constitutes acceptance of our Terms of Service, Privacy Policy and Cookies Policy. People may receive compensation for some links to products and services. Offers may be subject to change without notice.