Rapper and music mogul, E-40 was awarded an honorary doctorate degree from Grambling State University over the weekend.

Earl “E-40” Stevens attended Grambling State in the ’80s and said that his time on campus was “some of the best experiences” of his life.  “Grambling State really helped mold me to become the man, and entrepreneur that stands before you,” he said.

“I’m proud to set an example for the next generation of leaders, and I encourage everyone here today to use their experience here at Grambling State University to pursue their passions and achieve their dreams.”

40 received an honorary Doctor of Music degree from Grambling State University President Rick Gallot.

“This means so much to me – I’ve come a long way,” 40 said, per a press release. “I want to thank God first and foremost. This is a great honor to accept this honorary doctorate in music. I would live to express my appreciation to the administration and the academic community at Grambling State University. I’d also like to thank my family, my friends, and my colleagues for their unwavering support and encouragement throughout my career. As you know, music has been a lifelong passion of mine and it’s an incredible privilege to be recognized for my contributions to the industry, especially on the 50th anniversary of hip-hop music. They said it wouldn’t last that long, but it’s been 50 years.”

Since attending Grambling in 1986, the rap mogul has remained close to the university, offering support.

Earlier this year, he donated $100,000 to support the school’s music department, the World Famed Tiger Marching Band, and to establish a recording studio on campus. Grambling named the studio “Earl ‘E-40’ Stevens Sound Recording Studio,” in his honor.

He also returned to Grambling’s campus to shoot a music video for his single “Bands,” which featured the HBCU’s marching band.

40 took to Instagram to showcase the prestigious moment he received his honorary doctorate, captioning the video, “I came a long way thank you @grambling1901 & Congratulations to the graduating class of 2023 #gramfam”