Ohio State University will award LeBron James an honorary degree.
On May 21, 2025, The Ohio State University announced that it will award LeBron James an honorary Doctor of Public Service degree, recognizing his exceptional contributions to community development and social change. This honor underscores James’s profound impact both on and off the basketball court.(PublicNow)
LeBron James’s connection to Ohio runs deep. Born in Akron, Ohio, and having spent a significant portion of his life in the state, James’s ties to the community are both personal and professional. His basketball journey began at St. Vincent-St. Mary High School in Akron, and he was drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2003 NBA Draft. Though he did not attend college, James has long been an avid supporter of Ohio State University, frequently attending games and engaging with the community .(Sporting News)
The decision to award James an honorary Doctor of Public Service degree was made upon the recommendation of the University Senate and is pending approval by the Board of Trustees. James expressed a desire to engage directly with students as part of the process, leading to a virtual discussion with a class from Ohio State’s John Glenn College of Public Affairs. During this session, James emphasized the importance of listening to communities to drive meaningful change. He stated, “We took a deep dive into what we actually needed to do to create societal change. Being around families, being around the kids, listening to our community, they let us know and gave us the spearhead on what’s needed” .(Ohio State News, glenn.osu.edu, PublicNow)
Beyond his athletic achievements, James has dedicated himself to philanthropy through the LeBron James Family Foundation (LJFF). Established in 2004, the foundation focuses on at-risk children and families in Akron. One of its most notable initiatives is the I PROMISE School, a public elementary school created in partnership with the Akron Public Schools, which opened in 2018. The school provides education, mentorship, and resources to students and their families. Additionally, the foundation has launched the I PROMISE Institute at the University of Akron, I PROMISE Village (a housing complex), House Three-Thirty (a community center/retail plaza), and I PROMISE Health Quarters (a medical center) .(Wikipedia)
LeBron James’s receipt of this honorary degree symbolizes a recognition of his unwavering commitment to public service and community empowerment. It highlights the profound impact that individuals can have when they leverage their platforms and resources for the greater good. Through his foundation and personal efforts, James has demonstrated that true leadership extends beyond the court and into the communities that shape us.
As Ohio State University honors LeBron James, it not only celebrates his athletic prowess but also his dedication to creating lasting, positive change in society.
