Oprah to deliver Duke's 2009 graduation speech

Durham, N.C. — Oprah Winfrey will deliver Duke University’s 2009 commencement address on May 10, Duke President Richard Brodhead announced Monday.

“Oprah Winfrey has established herself as one of the most compelling figures of this time,” Brodhead said. “A media pioneer, she is a vivid example of the power of individual initiative."

"In her role as entertainer and entrepreneur, she has done as much to promote reading as anyone now alive," Brodhead continued. "Through her work as a philanthropist, she has become a force for literacy and education around the world. We will be delighted to welcome her to Duke.”

Winfrey is the supervising producer and host of the top-rated, award-winning “The Oprah Winfrey Show.” She is also the first woman to own and produce her own nationally syndicated talk show.

Duke will present Winfrey with an honorary doctor of humane letters degree at the commencement ceremony.