Kendrick Lamar Honors Compton College Grads

Compton College held its 2024 Commencement service at the Dignity Health Sports Park Tennis Stadium in Carson, CA, and the audience was surprised by the appearance of famous rapper Kendrick Lamar, who honored his hometown of Compton with an empowering speech and special recognition. Many people call Lamar one of the greatest rappers of all time. He was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Music. He often speaks about social ills and his political viewpoints in his music. Surprisingly, he offered spiritual advice to the audience. “This degree you have here is just as big as any other degree you will have. Your Compton College degree is just as big as any other college degree,” encouraged Lamar. “It’s about what you do from here. It’s about taking the resources and your education and applying it. You are gonna have hardships and tribulations just like you had coming up. But guess what? You have somebody special all around you, and that is God. No matter what you do, God will be with you. Talk to God wherever you go, whatever you do.” 

Kendrick Lamar was a surprise addition to an already robust program of speakers, with Compton College president and CEO Dr. Keith Curry, College Trustee Board Member Barbara Calhoun, and Dr. David M. Carlisle, president and CEO of Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science in the Watts-Willowbrook area of Los Angeles, the keynote speaker for the ceremony.

Dr. Carlisle advised the graduates, ” Now, as you step into the next chapter of your life, remember the world needs you. Strive to make a difference. Your education has prepared you to close disparities and improve your communities.”

Dr. Carlisle has been president and CEO of Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science since 2011. He is a published author in health policy, quality of care, medical education diversity, and eliminating health disparities.

Barbara Calhoun also added very worthwhile words of wisdom for the graduates. Barbara is well-known as a former Compton City Council member and union leader. Barbara plays a big part in the community. Ms. Calhoun stated, ” Commencement ” means “the beginning,” the start of something new, a new adventure full of lifelong learning and growth. Embrace change, stay curious, and continue to learn.”

This was an outstanding commencement ceremony with special guests and some excited graduates. Positive vibrations flowed throughout the stadium, and many lives were changed for the better. Compton College has made tremendous improvements over the past few years and should be proud of its achievements. You can’t say “City Pride” without saying Compton College.