SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- Wearing a cap and gown, with orange trim, Vanessa Williams officially became part of the class of 2008.
Williams studied musical theatre at SU from 1981 to 1983. She earned her remaining credits through her professional industry experience.
“It’s been 25 years since I was a student here. It just brought home what my message was, which is cherish the moment," said Actress Vanessa Williams.
Williams graduated along with 480 other students in the College of Visual and Performing Arts. The students say they were thrilled to have a big star among them.
“It’s so great to see her here and for her to speak to us and give us some words of encouragement," said SU Graduate Marie Uchiyama.
Williams said she came back to get her degree, because she wanted to set a good example.
She's won an Emmy, a Grammy, a Tony and the Miss America Pageant. And, now she can add a Syracuse University degree to her resume. News 10 Now's Giselle Phelps was there as actress Vanessa Williams finally got a chance to wear a cap and gown.
Turns out her family couldn't be more proud.
“It is fantastic. Its fulfillment, full circle and I'm very very excited and I know her dad is here in spirit," said Vanessa Williams' Mother Helen L. Williams.
“I was just really proud of my mom and its great to see her up there in a cap and gown," said Vanessa William's Son Devin.
" Yeah, she deserves it and she works really hard and she loves Syracuse so much, so I'm just happy to see her finally graduate," said Daughter Jillian.
Williams has been back to the City of Syracuse several times since her days as student. She say that's because Syracuse holds a special place in her heart.
“It’s always a homecoming, it always brings back great memories," said Williams.
Williams currently stars in the ABC hit show “Ugly Betty".