LL Cool J and daughter recieve degrees from Northeastern University

theGRIO REPORT - Last week, LL Cool J received an honorary doctorate degree from Northeastern University. The moment became even more special because he shared the experience with his daughter, Italia Smith who also graduated.

Kyle Harvey

May 9, 2014

Hip hop legend and actor LL Cool J never graduated from high school or college after signing with Def Jam Records as a teenager in 1984.

But last week, the rapper born James Todd Smith received an honorary doctorate degree from Northeastern University. The moment became even more special because he shared the experience with his daughter, Italia Smith, who also graduated.

“I’ve been called a few things, but never a doctor, that’s for sure,” said Cool J to CBS Boston. “For them to recognize my body of work and my contributions to the world of art is an amazing feeling.”

Adding to the ‘awe’ factor, LL was allowed to present his daughter her degree after she walked across the stage.

“It made me feel real proud because I know she put a lot of hard work in, a lot of dedication, a lot of commitment and a lot of hours,” LL said.

Grio fam, show your love to Italia and “Doctor” Cool J in the comments below.

You can check out Kyle’s musical coverage on theGrio music page, and follow Kyle on Twitter @HarveyWins.