Emmy-winning actress and writer Quinta Brunson returned to her roots on Wednesday (May 28) for an emotional ceremony at her alma mater, Andrew Hamilton School, in West Philadelphia. Surrounded by family, friends, students, and city leaders, Brunson was honored with a key to the city — a symbolic recognition of her success and ongoing impact on the community.

Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker presented the award, telling the crowd, “Quinta Brunson, this is your city and you are ours.” The honor marked a full-circle moment for Brunson, who credited the school and neighborhood for inspiring her hit ABC mockumentary sitcom , Abbott Elementary .

“Even when I first walked in the door, I was like, ‘Oh, I’m home. I’m home. I’m in Philly,'” Brunson said during her acceptance speech.

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