Neil deGrasse Tyson, renowned astrophysicist, space exploration advocate, author and commentator, will deliver the keynote address at Lehigh's 145th commencement in May 2013.

Tyson is well known for his strides toward making science accessible to many people. He serves as the Frederick P. Rose Director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City. Tyson earned his bachelor's degree in physics from Harvard University and a Ph.D. in astrophysics from Columbia University.

"Neil deGrasse Tyson has a rare gift for communicating the excitement of basic science, and he is a tremendous advocate for its importance to our nation," President Alice P. Gast said in a Lehigh News Center story. "Neil inspires us to dream big and to think about our world and beyond. We are extremely excited to have someone of his stature share his passion for science with us."

At the commencement ceremony, Tyson will receive an honorary doctor of science degree from Lehigh. The degree will be the 15th honorary doctorate Tyson has been awarded. NASA awarded Tyson with its Distinguished Public Service Medal, which is the highest award given to a non-government citizen by the program. In 2007, TIME magazine named Tyson one of the most influential people in the world.

Tyson has written 10 books, one of which is his memoir, "

The Sky is Not the Limit: Adventures of an Urban Astrophysicist." He is also working on television series "COSMOS," which will air 13 episodes on Fox in spring 2014. Tyson also had a hand in producing the "NOVA ScienceNOW" program for PBS.

I President appointed Tyson to serve on commissions to help determine the future of America's aerospace industry. He was also appointed to NASA's Advisory Board in 2006. n 2001 and 2004President George W. Bush appointed Tyson to serve on commissions to help determine the future of America's aerospace industry. He was also appointed to NASA's Advisory Board in 2006.

"I really look forward to having this renowned gentleman speak to my classmates, and I am hoping to hear him tell us, in so many words, to reach for the stars," Jarred Barnes, '13, told the Lehigh News Center. Barnes is the president of the class of 2013 and a member on the commencement speaker selection committee.

Lehigh's 145th commencement ceremony will be held at Goodman Stadium May 20, 2013.

Story by Brown and White news writer Melissa Collins, '13.