‘Breaking Bad’ Actor to Receive Honorary IU Degree

Jonathan Banks has earned three Emmy nominations

Indiana University will present an honorary doctoral degree to Emmy-nominated actor Jonathan Banks. An IU alumnus, Banks will receive the honorary Doctor of Humane Letters during the university’s honors convocation April 10.

Along with the degree presentation, Banks will meet with students and faculty at The Media School. He will also participate in activities at IU Cinema and the Department of Theatre, Drama and Contemporary Dance.

"Jonathan’s acting ability is matched by an unwavering commitment to community and to inspiring young people through his messages of hard work, kindness and personal responsibility," said IU President Michael McRobbie. "In recent years, he has graciously carved time from his busy schedule to share his knowledge and experiences with hundreds of Indiana University students, some of whom will aspire to follow in his footsteps. Indeed, he has become a great friend to IU and role model for our students, and we are very pleased to bestow upon him this honorary degree."

The university said over the years, Banks has come back to the Bloomington campus to teach classes, host lectures and meeting with students and alumni. His mother and one of his daughters are both IU graduates and Banks has another daughter currently attending IU.

Banks has been nominated for three Emmy Awards for his roles in "Wiseguy," "Breaking Bad" and "Better Call Saul." The honors convocation is invitation-only and will be held at 2:00 p.m. April 10 at the IU Auditorium.