Anthony Anderson Celebrates Graduating College At 51: 'It's Never Too Late'

Ashley Hunte
A group of graduates sitting in a ceremony space while wearing caps and gowns.
Unsplash | Joshua Hoehne

It's officially graduation season, which means you'll probably see at least a few of your friends and family post about their academic achievements (or those of a loved one) on social media.

That also means a handful of celebrities are going to start sharing their newfound graduate statuses online. After all, plenty of celebrities pursue higher education as well.

It seems like Anthony Anderson is one of the latest celebs to add a degree to their resume.

In an Instagram post from over the weekend, the Black-ish star celebrated the fact that he finally got his degree.

"To quote Biggie, 'IT WAS ALL A DREAM!'"

Anderson, 51, accompanied his post with a lengthy, heartwarming caption. He went on to say, "Words can’t begin to describe the emotional roller coaster I’m on right now. It’s literally been 30 years in the making."

"This spring I was finally able to complete the work to graduate from Howard University with a BFA degree from the Chadwick A Boseman College of Fine Arts!"

The actor had previously dropped out of Howard for financial reasons, but made the decision later in life to complete his degree requirements.

"Yesterday was a full circle moment. It’s never too late! Things happen when they’re supposed to happen!"

He then goes on to thank everyone who helped him get this far, stating that "It takes a village."

One of the people he thanked was Dean Phylicia Rashad.

Anthony Anderson in a graduation gown standing next to Dean Phylicia Rashad of Howard University.
instagram | Anthony Anderson

Good Morning America writes that Rashad was named dean of the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts back in May 2021. The name of the college is, of course, to honor the late actor, who graduated from the college in 2000.

Among others to get a shoutout from Anderson was Dr. Wayne Frederick, president of Howard University.

In a separate Instagram post, Anderson shares a video of the university's president not only confirming the graduates' status, but personally mentioning the actor by name.

And of course, Anderson had his own son to thank as well.

In his original Instagram post, Anderson thanks his son, Nathan, "for inspiring me to return to school to finish my degree after he was accepted into Howard University."

He also shared a photo of himself with Taraji P. Henson.

Anthony Anderson standing with Taraji P. Henson.
instagram | Anthony Anderson

Hidden Figures star Henson, who also attended the school, was the commencement speaker for Howard University this year. She was also awarded with an honorary doctorate from the school that same day.

While this was a celebration for all the students, Anderson definitely commanded a lot of attention.

In another post, the actor showed how the crowd was cheering him on as he walked toward the podium alongside his fellow students.

And in his own words, "This is just the beginning!"

Blue balloons floating upwards. One reads "yay!" and quickly zooms away.
Giphy | Slanted Studios

Whether you're 21, 51, or any age in between (or older!), getting your college degree is a huge accomplishment. Congratulations to Anthony Anderson, and to anyone else getting their degree this year!