Hip-Hop icon Grandmaster Flash received the State University of New York Honorary Doctorate of the Fine Arts. On Saturday, May 21, the Rock & Roll Hall of Famer was honored along with two of SUNY's most notable alumni; broadcast journalist Darryl W. Dennard, and Eric J. Greenburg, Director of U.N. Relations and Strategic Partnerships for the Simon Wiesenthal Center. The honorary doctorate is the highest form of recognition given by the State University of New York to people of exceptional distinction who exemplify the mission and purpose of SUNY.

Flash posted an Instagram video alongside Attorney General Letitia James. "First and foremost, we are headed to Buffalo to pay respects to those that lost their lives to a terrible hate crime," Flash wrote in the video's caption. "Later I'm visiting Buffalo State College where I'll receive a SUNY Honorary Doctor of Fine Arts. Very sad times we are living in and a very odd time to be celebrating this honor."

"I can only hope for more peace among humanity," the legendary DJ added.

Grandmaster Flash is credited with innovating early Hip-Hop DJing with his invention of techniques like "The Clock Theory" and "The Quick Mix Theory" as well as incorporating an electronic drum machine that he dubbed "The Beat Box" into his live sets. He also introduced the echo chamber into his live performances with his iconic group The Furious Five. These live performances were some of the most influential on first-generation rap crews, and they created a template that is still used today in rap live performances. Grandmaster Flash & The Furious 5 were the first rap act inducted into the prestigious Rock & Roll Hall of Fame as well as the Library of Congress archives for their historic song "The Message" which turned 40 years old this year. The group received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement award in 2021.