Before he was Johnny Mathis – world famous singer, he was John Mathis – San Francisco State College student. He only studied there for 3 semesters, doing extremely well in Track & Field when a record breaking high jump at a track meet in Reno, NV qualified him to compete in the US Olympic Trials.
Almost the same week a letter from Columbia Records arrives inviting him to go to New
York. They liked his demos and wanted him to come record his 1st album. John had to make a very big
decision. So at the age of 19 he left his academic & athletic career behind to be
come a singer. A choice that truly paid off.
So it was a tremendous honor yesterday on May 25th when Johnny’s Alma Mater, SFSU, presented him with an Honorary Degree of Doctorate of Fine Arts at their 2017 Commencement Ceremony in AT&T Park. it was an event 63 years in the making!
On behalf of Johnny’s staff and his fans around the world: Congratulations Dr. John Mathis!
Click on the video below to hear Johnny’s advice for the graduates which was played yesterday at the SFSU ceremony.
And click here to see more about yesterday’s events at the San Francisco State University Commencement, AND an upcoming interview with Johnny and Pam Moore of KRON 4 TV on 5/26 or 5/27.
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