Ashley McBryde Recognized With Doctorate of Music From Alma Mater

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Doctor Ashley McBryde. Photo: Rebecca Worthington

Ashley McBryde received an honorary Doctorate of Music on Saturday (May 10) from her alma mater, Arkansas State University, during the university’s Spring 2025 Commencement Ceremony.

Chancellor Todd Shields recognized during the ceremony that McBryde’s “determination and contributions to American Music is a testament to the opportunities that higher education can open and inspire for generations of Arkansas State University alums.”

“Earning a degree in music has always been something I’ve placed a lot of value in,” said McBryde. “It was something I felt I needed to accomplish. In my time here at A-State, I found my passion not only for performing, but for creating other musicians. The music education program is priceless. I’m so thankful for educators that pushed me to strive for excellence: Greg and Hope Bruner, Robin Dauer, Ed Alexander, Doctor Ken Carroll, Doctor Tom O’Connor and so many more. While my path to music education wound up looking a little different than a traditional one, I never lost my passion for music education, and I work alongside music educators every chance I get. Thank you for shaping me into the advocate I became, the musician I am today and the entrepreneur I didn’t know I was going to have to be.”

McBryde will perform tomorrow (May 13) at Opry 100 Honors: Loretta Lynn, and is also set to perform at CMA Fest at Nissan Stadium, at Country Thunder Wisconsin and Alberta, at WE Fest, and more this summer, along with her headlining dates.

Lorie Hollabaugh
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