In a written announcement, Duke President Richard H. Brodhead said Winfrey "has established herself as one of the most compelling figures of this time." He praised her for promoting literacy and education around the world.

Winfrey will receive an honorary doctor of humane letters degree at the ceremony.

Duke's announcement quoted Madison Li, a senior biomedical engineering major from Statesboro, Ga., as saying she was "awestruck" to learn that Winfrey would be the commencement speaker.

"Whatever speech she gives will really inspire the entire class," Li said.

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