Denzel Washington: Penn Graduation Speaker

He’s known the world over as one of the most gifted actors of our time, and Denzel Washington was given an Honorary Doctor of Arts degree at the University of Pennsylvania’s 255th Commencement ceremony today (May 16).

The “Man On Fire” actor also gave the commencement speech at the ceremony, sporting the traditional graduation garb and a pair of spectacles.

Denzel told the Ivy League graduates that he had to overcome insecurity to even show up and speak because he was afraid to “make a fool of myself.”

He also encouraged the students to “have the guts to fail- If you don’t fail you’re not even trying.”

Enjoy the pictures of Denzel Washington at University of Pennsylvania's 255th Commencement Ceremony (May 16).