Ballet icon Misty Copeland to deliver SMU’s May Commencement address and receive honorary degree
The renowned dancer, author and philanthropist made history as the first African American woman promoted to principal dancer at American Ballet Theatre.
Misty Copeland, renowned ballerina, bestselling author and philanthropist who made history as the first African American woman principal dancer at American Ballet Theatre, will be the featured speaker at SMU’s May Commencement Convocation on Saturday, May 15. She will also receive an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree from the University.
The ceremony, scheduled for 7:30 p.m. at Gerald J. Ford Stadium, will be streamed live at smu.edu/live.
Copeland broke barriers throughout her celebrated career, becoming one of the most recognizable figures in classical ballet. She has performed leading roles in iconic productions, including Odette/Odile in Swan Lake; Juliet in Romeo & Juliet; Giselle; Manon; Coppelia; Kitri in Don Quixote; and Firebird. Beyond the stage, she has become an influential advocate for expanding access to the arts and creating opportunities for underrepresented communities.
“Misty Copeland's extraordinary career is a testament to what can be achieved through talent, perseverance and the courage to challenge expectations,” President Jay Hartzell said. “Her story is a powerful example of what it means to lead with purpose and make a lasting impact. We are honored to welcome her to the Hilltop as we celebrate our graduates and all they will accomplish.”
Copeland began studying ballet at age 13, taking her first lessons on a basketball court at her local Boys & Girls Club in San Pedro, California. Despite her relatively late start, she quickly distinguished herself as an extraordinary talent, joining American Ballet Theatre in 2001 and becoming a soloist in 2007. Her historic promotion to principal dancer followed in 2015. She gave her final performance with the company in October 2025.
“Misty Copeland is one of the most remarkable artists and leaders of our time,” said Silas Farley, SMU’s Armstrong Artist in Residence in Ballet, assistant professor of ballet and a former dancer with New York City Ballet. “Even more than all of her achievements, what is most meaningful to me about Misty is how, at each stage of her ascent, she has both honored those who came before her and lifted up those around her. Her example offers a powerful lesson for our graduates about using their talents to make a difference in the lives of others.”
She is an avid philanthropist and ambassador of the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. In 2022, she launched the Misty Copeland Foundation, whose signature program, BE BOLD, aims to increase diversity and inclusion in ballet.
Copeland is the New York Times bestselling author of several books, including Life in Motion, Ballerina Body, Black Ballerinas and The Wind at My Back. She has been recognized as one of TIME magazine’s 100 Most Influential People and was the recipient of the Spingarn Medal, the NAACP's highest honor. She has received several honorary doctorates and degrees from celebrated institutions including New York University, The Juilliard School, University of Hartford, and Manhattan School of Music.