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Grammy Award-winning artist and philanthropist Wyclef Jean can now add another distinguished honor to his long list of achievements: The Haitian-born Jean was awarded an honorary doctorate on May 23 from Western Connecticut State University in Danbury.
Dr. Jean delivered a commencement speech, titled "Vision for the Future," to the graduating class of 2010 and was presented a check from the university in the amount of $9,500 for his organization, Yéle Haiti.
Founded in 2005, Yéle Haiti was one of the leading organizations that stepped up to the plate in the aftermath of this year's earthquake in Haiti.
Jean, who came from humble beginnings, stated that he had to "ride a donkey to school in Haiti" and stressed the importance of perseverance.
"I lived in a one-room shack. When I came to America, I didn't speak a word of English. Today I am able to travel the world, reach people with my music, work on behalf of my native Haiti and even speak at a college commencement."
Challenging WCSU's class of 2010 to have a vision for the future and embark on their dreams, Jean stated:
"Create a vision based on your specific gifts, talents and tools. There is greatness in simply being you and using your skill to do something with your vision -- and to put your personal plan in motion."
You can read more of Jean's inspiring speech at the Huffington Post.
Comments: (22)
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By: ADMR on 5/25/2010 3:51PM
Please Don't Ask AMERICANS for any more Money - Smart AMERICANS Take Care Of Home First.
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By: Golda Romelien on 5/26/2010 8:29AM
Well, it's wonderful to have you out there Dr Wyclef Jean, yes indeed we need people like you in the world and to those who complain about Americans and not asking for money, live in a very tiny world that does not include human decency, you spend so much money eating chinese food and fast food which can make you ill and that's allright with you but 1 to 2 dollars to help someone eat a plate of rice across the world upsets you, just think about, what a beautiful human being you are, if you don't want to help others don't but don't speak for Americans, remember we come from all over the world so no way can your selfish self be able to represent all of us ideas. Peace
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By: Juana on 5/28/2010 9:26PM
Golda, why is your issue really? Americans have always given to other countries. There are enough Haitians in this country to take care of their own people back home. Every forgeiner in this country should be happy to support their home and stop asking Americans to do it. We as Americans need to take better care of ourselves first. There are poor people right under our noses and you foreinger are always expecting us to help you first. We fought for you to rightfully come here, isn't that enough? As for the doctorate, it just goes to show that that you can buy anything.
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By: No1'sname on 5/27/2010 8:17AM
Juana you don't speak for all Americans & everyone is entitled to their own opinions whether you agree or not. If people would stop looking out for themselves & start giving then It would make a world of difference. No matter what country other people are from. Conratulations Wyclef
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By: Dee on 5/27/2010 11:31AM
@Golda, I totally in agreement with you 210% if some people don't want to give it is their right not to give but they do not speak for all American. Like the good book said when you give is not for others but is for your own good and the blessing of their next generation of seed. And some people wonder why good things can’t seems to happen for them or their family.
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By: haha dats phunny on 5/26/2010 11:46AM
Been waiting for a tour.... any news of a tour? http://www.frontrowking.com/concert/Wyclef_Jean_tickets.html
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By: Juana on 5/26/2010 8:58PM
I meant to say, WHAT is your issue? Also Ms.Romelien, Americans can spend their money on whatever the hell they want to, as it's their money. You are such a damn foreigner. That's right, I'm 100% Catawba Indian so I am American and I can speak for Americans. Who are you to speak on what someone else spends their money on?
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By: NAVEA on 5/27/2010 7:48AM
Ummm Juana.... Shouldn't your statement be what is your issue really not why is your issue really? Maybe your issue should consist of proper English language usage and not on those who desperately need emotional, physical, and mental help across the globe. What physical efforts have you contributed within your community? Ummm probably nothing since your so involved in bringing down something you probably could never accomplish like Dr. Jean has. Congrats Wyclef!!!
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By: Juana on 5/31/2010 9:00PM
Navea...read before you blog, stupid. The What was corrected before you got your ugly ass out of bed. You attempt to be smart and made your self look stupid at the same time. My accomplishments are none of your business. Learn not to blog until you have read the whole thing. It's a dumbass that would have opinion before reading the entire story.
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By: lmbao on 5/27/2010 11:48AM
Sounds like someone woke up on the wrong side of the dirt this morning!
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