New England Conservatory Announces 2025 Honorary Degree Recipients

Boston Symphony’s CEO Chad Smith and conductor Michael Tilson Thomas are among this year’s honorees 

Boston’s New England Conservatory (NEC) has announced this year’s commencement speaker and five honorary degree recipients for its 154th graduation ceremony on May 18, 2025. 

President and CEO of the Boston Symphony Orchestra and NEC alum Chad Smith will be the featured speaker and receive an honorary doctor of music degree. 

Others receiving the same degree include City of Boston Mayor Michelle Wu; conductor Michael Tilson Thomas; film score composer Conrad Pope; and life trustee Wendy Shattuck. 

Joining the group is Marvin E. Gilmore, who will receive an honorary degree at a ceremony in October. Brian McCreath will feature as the alumni speaker.

“Each of these honorees stands as a powerful example of how music can be transformative and open doors to endless possibilities,” said NEC President Andrea Kalyn. “We look forward to celebrating their impact on the performing arts and in our communities, and to sharing their inspirational stories as we continue to expand NEC’s reach and impact in Boston and beyond.”

“Music presents endless opportunities to inspire, comfort, and challenge audiences in ways inaccessible through other art forms,” Smith added. “But its power of renewal requires the act of creative regeneration by young and emerging musicians … There is no musical community like NEC, with the most talented young musicians and faculty from across the world. I am honored to be speaking at this year’s graduation, as I have been honored to serve NEC as a trustee during this time of expansion, change, and innovation.”

“The performing arts have been a powerful part of my life since I was a child and have shaped my determination as a public official working to make Boston a home for everyone,” expressed Mayor Michelle Wu. “Music education has the potential to create pathways for students beyond just artistry, and the City of Boston is proud to partner with NEC on delivering classes in our public schools and scholarship opportunities for all students in our communities.”