Renowned actor, author, comedian and philanthropist, Dr. William H. "Bill" Cosby, Jr. received an honorary degree from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University at the Spring 2008 Commencement.

Commencement was held Saturday, May 10, 8 a.m. (line-up) at the Greensboro Coliseum. Cosby was also the commencement speaker.

A native of Philadelphia, Pa., he is well known for his commitment to education.

After his stint in the U.S. Navy, Cosby enrolled in Temple University where he earned a bachelor's degree. Then, long after he had achieved much of his success to obtain a masters degree as well as an doctorate degree in education.

He has never stopped realizing the importance of challenging himself. “People always say ‘You don’t need money, why are you still working?’ My answer is that it isn’t about money. That’s academic. It’s about accepting the challenges of one’s own ideas, clarifying the unanswered questions and pursuing the excitement of discovery," said Cosby.

"It is always a pleasure to see those fresh faces of the new graduates. It’s also fun to notice the relieved smiles of the parents who are wondering, ‘Are they going to be all right?’ The unanswered questions are now really directed at them."

Cosby’s wife Camille is equally passionate about the importance of education and she too has attained an Ed.D. Together, they have strived to promote the importance of a good education. They have donated funds to a wide range of universities and delivered commencement addresses to further emphasize the importance of learning.