Shaquille O'Neal Earns Doctorate From Barry University: PHOTOS
Retired NBA superstar Shaquille O’Neal received his doctorate in education on Saturday from Barry University in Florida.
We’re not talking about an honorary degree … he earned his PhD by undertaking a doctoral capstone project to explore how CEO’s and business leaders use humor in the workplace.
It all began when the former Miami Heat star returned to his collegiate studies in 2000 to finish up the final year of general studies, earning a BA from LSU. He went on to earn an MBA from the University of Phoenix in 2005.
In 2010 he quietly undertook an Ed.D in Human Resource Development at Barry University. His official thesis was titled “The Duality of Humor and Aggression in Leadership Styles.”
The 7’1″, 325 lb. graduate had his XXXL gown custom made for his graduation ceremony. He actually got down on one knee so Dr. David M. Kopp could place the distinctive light blue hood over the athlete’s head.
After the ceremony Dr. O’Neal said, “Of all the things I’ve done in my life, this probably is my number one accomplishment.”
The crowd went wild when Shaquille picked up the school president. Check it out on video below along with more photos:
Photo Credit: Johnny Louis -WENN
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