Courtney B. Vance Delivers 2025 Commencement Address at William James College

On June 8, 2025, award-winning actor Courtney B. Vance took the stage at the Boston Park Plaza Hotel to deliver the commencement address for the William James College graduating class. Known for his powerful performances on stage and screen including The People vs. O.J. Simpson, Lovecraft Country, and Genius: Aretha, Vance brought that same energy and insight to his remarks for the next generation of behavioral health and leadership professionals.

Vance co-authored with Dr. Robin L. Smith THE INVISIBLE ACHE: Black Men Identifying Their Pain and Reclaiming Their Power, which Kirkus Reviews called a “thoughtful, wise, empathetic book that has the capacity to save lives.” In recognition of his advocacy and leadership, Vance was also awarded an honorary degree by the College, alongside fellow honorees Molly Baldwin, founder of ROCA, and Dr. Ken Duckworth, Chief Medical Officer of NAMI.

Watch this livestream recording of his full speech to hear Vance celebrate this milestone with the William James College Class of 2025.

About William James College

Founded in 1974, William James College is a leading educator in applied psychology with more than 1,000 students enrolled in eight degree programs and six certificate programs. Degree programs include Clinical Psychology, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, School Psychology, Organizational and Leadership Psychology, Applied Behavior Analysis, and Psychology and Human Services. We offer specialized programs in Latino, Black, and Asian Mental Health; Military and Veterans Psychology, and LGBTQIA+ Studies.