Simone Biles Becomes Dr. Biles: The Olympic Legend Receives an Honorary Doctorate from Washington University

She’s officially adding “Doctor” to her résumé — and another incredible milestone to her already historic career.

At Washington University in St. Louis’ 164th Commencement Ceremony, held on May 16, 2025, Simone Biles took the stage not as an athlete competing for gold, but as a speaker and honoree, offering heartfelt advice to the graduating class of 2025. In recognition of her trailblazing achievements in sports, mental health advocacy, and leadership, Biles received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters, marking yet another moment that cements her legacy (The Washington Post).

“The world doesn’t need you to be perfect,” Biles told the graduates during her moving address. “It needs you to be bold, to care, and to keep going even when things don’t go as planned. So go out there and write your own story — one that only you can tell.”

The audience — a crowd of more than 15,000 graduates, faculty, and family members — erupted in applause as Biles accepted her honorary doctorate. Her message, both inspiring and deeply personal, touched on resilience, authenticity, and the courage to fail forward, themes that have defined her journey both inside and outside the gym (NBC News).

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From Olympic Podiums to Commencement Podiums

Biles’ speech reflected the same strength and grace that made her the most decorated gymnast in world history, with a total of 37 Olympic and World Championship medals — an achievement that surpasses any gymnast, male or female, in history (ESPN).

Since the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where she took a courageous step back from competition to prioritize her mental health, Biles has become one of the most influential voices in the movement to redefine success in sports. She’s continued to dominate in her comeback, winning multiple titles at the 2024 Paris Olympics, and using her platform to advocate for mental wellness, athlete safety, and women’s empowerment.

“Simone Biles represents excellence — not just in her sport, but in her humanity,” said Washington University Chancellor Andrew D. Martin, introducing her. “Her courage to lead with vulnerability and integrity has inspired millions around the world.” (St. Louis Post-Dispatch)

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A Celebration of Women, Wisdom, and Washington Pride

Biles wasn’t the only trailblazer honored that day. She shared the spotlight with Jennifer Lewis, the acclaimed actress, singer, and St. Louis native affectionately known as the “Mother of Black Hollywood.” Lewis, who also received an honorary Doctor of Fine Arts, electrified the crowd with her humor and authenticity, reminding graduates to “find your purpose and stand in it.”

The university welcomed both honorees with what students dubbed a “spirit tunnel” — a high-energy welcome inspired by Jennifer Hudson’s “Dreamgirls” performance style. Videos shared by the university on Instagram showed Biles and Lewis beaming as faculty and students cheered them on (WashU Instagram).

“It was such a full-circle moment,” Biles later shared on social media. “To stand on that stage, not as an athlete, but as someone encouraging the next generation — it means the world.”

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Beyond the Medals: A Legacy of Purpose

Biles’ journey from Columbus, Ohio, to global stardom has been marked by both triumphs and trials. Raised in Texas by her grandparents, who adopted her at a young age, Biles has long credited her family for instilling the resilience and discipline that shaped her career. Over the years, she has become not just a gymnast, but a symbol of perseverance, representation, and advocacy for young girls everywhere (Time Magazine).

In recent years, she’s launched several initiatives, including a mental health foundation and partnerships with brands such as Athleta to promote confidence and body positivity. Her Washington University honorary degree recognizes not only her achievements in athletics but also her impact as a global role model and advocate for social change (CNN).

“Simone’s legacy reminds us that greatness is about more than medals — it’s about character, compassion, and courage,” said Chancellor Martin.

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The Next Chapter for Dr. Biles

After the ceremony, Biles shared a carousel of photos on Instagram, smiling in her maroon academic regalia and holding her honorary diploma. The post was flooded with congratulations from fans, athletes, and public figures alike. “Dr. Biles has a nice ring to it,” one fan commented.

For Biles, this milestone is another reminder that the power of perseverance extends beyond the gym floor. As she continues to inspire both athletes and everyday dreamers, her new title feels fitting — a doctor not of medicine, but of humanity, healing, and hope.

So yes, she’s still flipping, still winning — but now, she’s Dr. Simone Biles, rewriting what it means to soar.