Aretha Franklin performed the national anthem and received an honorary degree at Harvard University on Thursday.
The 72-year-old singer's rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner" was met with thunderous applause from the audience. The performance took place during the institution's 363rd commencement ceremony.
Franklin was awarded an honorary Doctor of Arts degree for her accomplishments in music. The university lauds the star on its website as having "an amazing vocal range and flexibility and unmatched musicianship."