Steve Kerr, an NBA champion, award-winning coach, social justice advocate, philanthropist and beloved Wildcat, received an honorary Doctor of Humanities degree at the 2024 University of Arizona Commencement.
“Steve Kerr's storied career in the NBA—as a player, a general manager, and a coach—has been marked by an impressive array of accolades, including multiple championship titles and personal honors,” said Alain-Philippe Durand, Dorrance Dean of the College of Humanities. “His advocacy for social change reflects a rare blend of intellect, compassion and unwavering dedication. He has had a profound and indelible impact on our community and beyond.”
A standout basketball player, Kerr graduated in 1988 with a bachelor's degree in General Studies and is a College of Humanities alumnus. He earned all-American honors his senior year before being drafted in the NBA’s second round. As a player, he won five championships in his 15 years and continued his success as a broadcaster and general manager. In his current role as head coach of the Golden State Warriors, he’s won four NBA titles and was named Coach of the Year in 2016.
Before the Friday night Commencement, Kerr was honored by the College of Humanities during a morning ceremony, where he spoke about his international upbringing, his commitment to teaching and mentorship as a coach, and the value of studying the humanities.
“I choose the humanities because it offers an incredibly well-rounded education and teaches people to connect with one another and to collaborate,” Kerr said.
Kerr spoke about deciding on a General Studies major and how it united several of his academic interests.
“There’s no question that with a diverse education, a broad education teaching the core values of humanity, compassion, and empathy, you can go anywhere,” he said. “It helps you find your way.”
For today’s students and graduating seniors, Kerr said learning is a process that never stops and it’s important to adopt an inquisitive mindset.
“The advice that I give to all young people who ask me, no matter what they study, is what I’ve learned is none of us know everything,” he said. “One of the strongest signs of intelligence is admitting you don’t know something and being comfortable with that. We’re all lifelong learners.”
Kerr’s nomination for the honorary degree was initiated by Dr. Caleb Simmons, Director of Interdisciplinary Studies (the new name of the General Studies degree that Kerr obtained), who highlighted Kerr’s advocacy for important issues like racial justice and gun violence prevention.
“His embodiment of ethical values and his unwavering commitment to social justice exemplify the very essence of what the humanities seek to cultivate – a more inclusive, empathetic, and enlightened society,” Simmons wrote.