LL Cool J emceed the afternoon’s festivities, and interviewed members of each ensemble after their performances, joking with students as he asked about their interests and the origins of each group—a role he likened to “the David Letterman of Harvard.”

During the show’s second act, LL Cool J donned a Harvard sweatshirt given to him by Walker and Kim.

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Amid the audience’s laughter, LL Cool J said, “I love the sweatshirt. I can’t wait to rock it in a video.”

Counter presented him with the Artist of the Year plaque and praised the honoree as “an outstanding role model and symbol of excellence” in his commitment to educating young people.

Earlier in the day, LL Cool J had been toasted at a lunch in Kirkland House and the subject of a roast by the Immediate Gratification Players. The annual Cultural Rhythms Food Festival in the Science Center followed the Sanders program and showcased a variety of ethnic cuisines.

At the press event after the show, LL Cool J remarked that he was unprepared for the level of enthusiasm and talent Harvard brought to the stage.

“I didn’t expect to come and be inspired,” he said. “I feel inspired.”

LL Cool J joins the likes of Will Smith, Halle Berry, Matt Damon, and Shakira to have received the honor.

—Staff writer Nikki D. Erlick can be reached at nikki.erlick@thecrimson.com. Follow her on Twitter @nikkierlick.

—Staff writer Brianna D. MacGregor can be reached at brianna.macgregor@thecrimson.com. Follow her on Twitter @bdmacgregor.