Comedian and actor Katt Williams has officially joined the list of legendary entertainers honored by Historically Black Colleges and Universities after receiving an honorary doctorate from Miles College. The recognition came during a special ceremony on October 18, 2025, celebrating Williams not only for his impact on entertainment but also for his growing commitment to investing in Alabama’s creative economy through the HBCU community.
Williams accepted the Doctorate in Humane Letters at the Birmingham-area institution, known for its deep HBCU legacy and innovation.
“It was going to take a mighty fine institution to recognize that,” Williams told the crowd.
“I serve a God that insists that my cup runneth over. And those smiles that I sell for a living — those have Miles right in the middle of it.”
His remarks earned a standing ovation from students, faculty, and alumni who have long supported the school’s mission to blend academic excellence with real-world leadership opportunities.
According to Black Enterprise, the honorary degree isn’t just a symbolic gesture. It’s part of a deeper relationship forming between Williams and the college, centered around his new film studio project in Anniston, Alabama, located on over 90 acres of land at the former Fort McClellan base. The studio development is expected to bring new film production opportunities and workforce training to the region, with students from Miles College positioned to gain firsthand experience in film, tech, and business.
Miles College President Bobbie Knight called the collaboration a milestone moment for the institution’s future. By connecting with Williams’ growing business ventures, the college plans to introduce programming that integrates entertainment, technology, and artificial intelligence into its curriculum. “Our students deserve access to real industry experiences,” Knight said in a recent statement. “Partnerships like this show what happens when HBCUs are at the center of innovation and creativity.”
Williams’ connection to Miles College follows a wave of celebrities and cultural figures partnering with HBCUs to expand their educational and entrepreneurial impact. Recent efforts from stars like Taraji P. Henson’s foundation at Howard University and Chris Paul’s collaboration with Winston-Salem State University reflect a growing movement among entertainers to invest in historically Black institutions.
For Miles, this partnership could mean new jobs, scholarships, and media opportunities for students eager to break into the creative industries.
As Williams continues expanding his brand beyond comedy — into business, real estate, and education — his honorary doctorate serves as recognition of both his professional success and his evolving legacy. For HBCU students, especially those at Miles College, it’s a reminder that higher education and entertainment can coexist to shape the future of Black innovation.
