ALISO VIEJO, Calif.—Jazz titan and global humanitarian Herbie Hancock will receive the 2025 Soka Global Citizen Award, Soka University of America (SUA) announced in a statement. The honor celebrates Mr. Hancock’s six-decade journey as a musical innovator and cultural bridge-builder whose influence stretches far beyond the keyboard.
“Herbie Hancock embodies what it means to be a global citizen,” said SUA President Edward M. Feasel. “His peerless artistry and cultural leadership transcend borders, inspiring generations of musicians and youth through his groundbreaking music and unwavering commitment to peace, cultural exchange and human dignity.”
Hancock has been in the vanguard of modern music since the early days of his career, from his trailblazing work with Miles Davis to his genre-defining albums like “Maiden Voyage,” “Head Hunters” and “Future Shock.”
For his contributions to music, he has been the recipient of 14 Grammy awards and the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, as well as the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Mr. Hancock will receive the Soka Global Citizen award during a campus ceremony in May.
SUA established the award in 2021 to honor individuals who exemplify the ideals of global citizenship; and it carries a $25,000 stipend to support the recipient’s ongoing work.
Mr. Hancock joins a distinguished list of past honorees, including Ambassador Andrew Young, Ambassador Anwarul K. Chowdhury, Wanjira Mathai and Dr. Mirian Vilela, all of whom were recognized for their enduring contributions to humanity.
—Adapted from an article on soka.edu
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