Who was the speaker who thanked, among others, "proud and, finally, somewhat financially free parents," along with "drifters and hobos who may have spent the night in the gymnasium" during the Siena Heights University graduation ceremony on Saturday, May 9?
It was none other than Dr. William James Paul Murray, aka Bill Murray, the film star and "Saturday Night Live" legend who received an honorary doctorate this weekend.
Murray surprised graduates, who weren't told that he would be appearing, at the commencement event in Adrian, Michigan. He spoke to the audience after his sibling, Sister Nancy Murray of the Adrian Dominican Sisters, who also was given honorary doctorate recipient for her roles in education and ministry.
Both Murrays are among the final honorary degree recipients to be named by the college. Siena Heights University announced in June 2025 that it would be closing at the end of the 2025-2026 academic year. The school is a Catholic institution founded in 1919 by the Adrian Dominican Sisters.
Murray told the audience at the university's fieldhouse that he was not prepared to give a speech, but "I feel because I am now part of your family that I will be forgiven."
