Esteemed Indian physician, researcher, and bestselling author Siddhartha Mukherjee has been selected as the keynote speaker for the 2024 University of Pennsylvania Commencement, scheduled for May 20 at Franklin Field. Penn Interim President J. Larry Jameson expressed his delight in Mukherjee’s acceptance of the invitation, highlighting his distinguished career in oncology and his impactful contributions to medical literature.
Mukherjee, currently serving as an associate professor of medicine at Columbia University and practicing oncologist, gained acclaim for his Pulitzer Prize-winning book “The Emperor of All Maladies” (2011) and subsequent works like “The Gene: An Intimate History” (2016) and “The Song of the Cell” (2022). These books have not only provided insightful narratives on medical subjects but have also contributed significantly to public awareness and understanding of human health and science.
Recognized as one of Time magazine’s top nonfiction books of the century, Mukherjee’s writings have transcended literary acclaim to inspire PBS documentaries, amplifying his impact on shaping public discourse in the medical realm. His pioneering research into cancer cells’ composition and behavior has propelled advancements in cancer pathology, paving the way for novel biological and cellular therapies beyond traditional pharmaceutical approaches.
Beyond his literary endeavors, Mukherjee’s contributions extend to prestigious publications like The New Yorker and The New York Times Magazine, along with seminal scientific journals such as Nature and The New England Journal of Medicine. In recognition of his groundbreaking work, Mukherjee will be conferred an honorary doctor of sciences degree during the Commencement ceremony.
Joining Mukherjee as 2024 Penn honorary degree recipients are notable figures including Ingrid Daubechies, Karl Deisseroth, Kenneth (Kenny) Gamble, Leon Huff, and Maya Lin. Their collective achievements across various fields underscore the university’s commitment to honoring individuals who have made indelible impacts on society. Julie Platt, chair of the Trustee Honorary Degrees and Awards Committee, expressed the university’s profound appreciation for these accomplished individuals and looks forward to celebrating their contributions with the Penn community.
