Oprah Winfrey was the guest speaker at Howard University’s commencement this weekend. Howard, one of the country’s most well-respected historically black universities, is just a few blocks from my house.

The school awarded Oprah, perhaps the most influential black woman in America, an honorary doctorate in humanities

“I stand here as a symbol of what is possible when you believe in the dream of your own life,” she told the university’s 2,300 graduates and their 28,000 guests.

“Don’t be afraid. All you need to do is know who you are.”

Well said, Doctor Oprah.

Photo by Jacquelyn Martin, AP