Viola Davis and Walter Murch were awarded honorary Doctorate of Fine Arts degrees by the American Film Institute at the conservatory’s commencement ceremony. The event took place at the TCL Chinese Theater on Friday morning.

Davis told the graduates that “they already have their ruby slippers.”

“You have to know that you have the power within you to make it, whatever that making it means,” David told Variety moments before accepting the honor. “That’s what I want to remind them.”

Davis also talked about the significance of AFI recognizing her contributions to the film and TV industry.

“It’s always especially potent when it’s given by your peers,” she said. “I consider everyone that is in this profession — no matter how long they’ve been in it, known, unknown, faceless — my pee

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