ROCHESTER, N.Y. — The University of Rochester’s 168th commencement ceremony was an historic one.

On Sunday, the institution awarded its first posthumous honorary degree to renowned abolitionist Frederick Douglass. His great-great-great-grandson, Kenneth Morris Jr., accepted the honorary Doctor of Laws degree on his ancestor’s behalf.

“We all descend from somebody that made a difference, somebody that may have sacrificed for the freedoms that we have in this country. So I hope his legacy will continue to inspire people for years to come,” said Morris Jr.

The degree served as a sign of inspiration for many in the new graduating class.

“It’s monumental. Commemorating him in that way was really big for us today. For African Americans. For anybody that has ever suffered anything. It’s really amazing to see this,” said U of R graduate Devante Bignall.

“The fact that Frederick Douglass is being recognized, it definitely touches my heart as a minority student on this campus,” said U of R graduate Zelalem Alabo.

In celebration of Frederick Douglass’ 200th birthday anniversary, his family hopes to distribute one million copies of Douglass’ first narrative in his honor.