On May 17, students will receive an official send-off from Penn and have a chance to hear an address from Bono, the man with one of the most recognizable—and perhaps influential—voices of this generation. Not only has he achieved worldwide success as lead singer and songwriter for the rock group, U2, Bono has put his fame to good use by co-founding DATA (Debt AIDS Trade Africa), an organization through which he works to raise awareness and action in wealthy countries to fight against poverty and AIDS in Africa. For his efforts, Bono (that’s Bono, Esq. to you) will receive an honorary Doctor of Laws degree. He joins other honorary degree recipients UCSF Biochemistry and Biophysics Professor Elizabeth Blackburn, photographer Lee Friedlander, Yale Professor Emeritus of History Jaroslav Pelikan and musician and composer Max Roach.

• COMMENCEMENT 2004 : The 248th Commencement will be held rain or shine on May 17 at Franklin Field, 33rd and South streets. Gates open at 8:30 a.m. for guest seating; the student procession enters the field around 9:30 a.m. The ceremony concludes around noon. Tickets are not required for admission. Info: www.upenn.edu/commencement.