Stevie Wonder receives honorary degree at NU graduation

Saturday, June 21, 2014
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EVANSTON, Ill. -- Northwestern University graduates celebrated Friday night, and among them were honorary degree recipients Stevie Wonder and Cloris Leachman.

The crowd at Ryan Field in Evanston gave the singer and songwriter a big welcome.

Leachman, who majored in drama at Northwestern, was honored for her acting career that spans six decades.

Chicago Symphony Orchestra music director Riccardo Muti also received an honorary degree before speaking about the importance of music during the commencement address.

"For all our new methods of communication, people still don't seem to understand each other. But through music, this mysterious and elusive art, we can help the world become better," said Muti.

He urged the graduates to put down their smartphones and engage in the art of conversation.