Jimmy Kimmel, late-night talk show host and comedian, will be the featured speaker at the Keck School of Medicine of USC class of 2019 commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 11, at the USC Galen Center. Kimmel will address students, faculty and families from the Keck School MD program at the school’s 134th commencement.

While renowned for his talk show and comedic work, Kimmel has a long history of work outside of entertainment. He has used his fame and platforms on television and social media to raise awareness and funds for many charitable organizations, and advocates for national health care for all.

“Jimmy Kimmel is a powerful advocate of health care and has helped raise awareness of critical issues, while putting a high-profile face to the many families that undergo health crises of their own,” said Laura Mosqueda, MD, dean of the Keck School and professor of family medicine.

Last year Kimmel was honored by Children’s Hospital Los Angeles — which is staffed by Keck School faculty physicians — for his work in advocating for health care coverage for all children and families in the United States, following an emotional tribute to the facility after his newborn son was treated there.

“The Keck School is proud that our physicians were able to support the Kimmel family during a turbulent time. By sharing his family’s emotional and heartfelt journey with millions, Jimmy Kimmel touched countless lives and enlisted support for high-quality, innovative health care for all. We are deeply grateful to him for sharing his thoughts with our graduates,” Mosqueda said.

– Cynthia Smith