Fat Joe can officially add "Doctor" to his title after he received an honorary doctorate degree.
The veteran artist was awarded with an honorary degree from Lehman College in his hometown of The Bronx. Dr. Joseph "Fat Joe" Cartagena received a Doctorate of Human Letters degree during the college's 56th Annual Commencement Ceremony on Thursday, May 30. After he received the degree, Don Cartagena gave a five-minute speech in which he uplifted all of graduates and emphasized the importance of giving back to his community.
"You're just beginning your lives," Joe said. "Some of you have been around, but I’m telling you success never stops. There is no age limit to being successful.”
"God is the Greatest!" he wrote in his Instagram caption. "I promised my moms a Diploma & who would have thought i would have a Doctorate. I’d like to thank Lehman College for this humbling experience 🙏🏽"
Fat Joe received the honor for his continuous contributions to the music industry as well as his philanthropic work. 30 years after he dropped his debut album Represent, Joey Crack has dedicated his life to expanding his résumé beyond music by becoming an entrepreneur and an author. Last year, Fat Joe released his first book, The Book of Jose: A Memoir which he wrote alongside veteran music journalist Shaheem Reid.
The multiplatinum-selling artist has also been heavily involved with national efforts like Power To The Patients. The Terror Squad leader has hosted several events for the non-profit organization that aims to ensure all hospitals follow the law by publicly post the prices of all of their services. Last year, he held a major benefit concert with French Montana, Rick Ross, Busta Rhymes and Spliff Star. He's also met with lawmakers in our nation's capitol, and recently attended the 2024 State of the Union address.
Check out more scenes from the graduation ceremony below. Congratulations Fat Joe!
Photo: Vital Versatility