At Juilliard’s 97th commencement ceremonies on May 24 in Alice Tully Hall, President Joseph Polisi will present honorary doctorates to playwright Edward Albee; soprano Shirley Verrett; jazz saxophonist Jimmy Heath; choreographer Helgi Tomasson; and comedian and philanthropist Bill Cosby, who will address the graduating class. The lives and accomplishments of these outstanding and multifaceted personalities in the arts are summarized in brief biographies for The Journal.

Bill Cosby As a performer, comedian, and philanthropist, Bill Cosby has had a widespread impact on the lives of countless people around the world. His generous support of numerous charities, particularly in the field of education, has granted many Americans the gift of learning. More...

Shirley Verrett Soprano Shirley Verrett has achieved international recognition as one of America’s greatest performing artists. Her combination of vocal gifts, dynamic stage presence, and elegant style have made her a star at all the world’s great opera houses. More...

Jimmy Heath Tenor saxophonist, composer, and jazz educator Jimmy Heath is a living legend in the jazz world. The great Dizzy Gillespie, paying tribute to Mr. Heath’s seminal role in the development of bebop, once reportedly observed, "If you know Jimmy Heath, you know bop." More...

Edward Albee One of the most heralded playwrights of the 20th century and winner of three Pulitzer Prizes for drama, Albee has had his work produced for the stage in six consecutive decades. Through some 25 plays, his singular voice has addressed difficult subjects that have both perplexed and fascinated viewers. More...

Helgi Tomasson In a career that has spanned more than four decades, Helgi Tomasson has displayed a rare grace, vision, and versatility in everything he has accomplished, both on stage and off. As a performer (including 15 years as principal dancer with the New York City Ballet), he brought a purity of style and a sense of excitement to dozens of roles. More...