Yolanda “Yo-Yo” Whitaker and Toi Salter will receive honorary Doctor of Arts degrees at Columbia College Chicago’s commencement ceremonies on May 17 at Credit Union 1 Arena in Chicago.
The college said both honorees are being recognized for careers that have shaped their fields and expanded the cultural and civic impact of entertainment and community leadership. Each will address graduates, families, faculty, and guests during the ceremonies.
Columbia College Chicago continues its tradition of honoring influential voices in the arts, business, and media with these selections. Dr. Shantay N. Bolton, President and CEO of Columbia College Chicago, said: “Yolanda Whitaker and Toi Salter are leaders whose work is rooted in voice, influence, and stewardship. Their ability to shape culture, build opportunity, and inspire others reflects the kind of creative leadership we celebrate at Columbia.”
Suzanne McBride, Interim Provost and Senior Vice President as well as Professor of Journalism at Columbia College Chicago said: “Yolanda ‘Yo-Yo’ Whitaker and Toi Salter exemplify the kind of leadership and creative influence we strive to cultivate in our graduates. It’s an honor to recognize their enduring impact, and I look forward to hearing how they’ll inspire the Class of 2026.”
Whitaker rose to prominence as a leading voice in West Coast hip-hop during the early 1990s. She became known for her breakout single “You Can’t Play with My Yo-Yo,” which addressed gender dynamics within hip-hop while amplifying women’s perspectives. Her career includes multiple albums along with appearances in film such as “Boyz n the Hood” as well as television including “Martin.” Currently she appears on AspireTV’s second season of “Downright Delicious with Yo-Yo.” Beyond performance work she founded The Yo-Yo School of Hip-Hop focusing on youth development through hip-hop–based learning initiatives.
“Wow, I’m honored, truly! Columbia College Chicago sees creativity, community, and real impact—and that’s what I live for,” said Whitaker. “I can’t wait to celebrate with the grads, share some stories, and remind them that artistry and purpose go hand in hand.”
Toi Salter is CEO of Salter Financial Management; her clients include NBA All-Stars among others from business circles throughout Chicago where she is also recognized for philanthropic efforts supporting education access. Through UNCF Chicago fundraising under her leadership more than $3 million has been raised; chairing recent galas for The Urban League added over $7 million toward local initiatives.
Salter said: “Access to education changes everything. I’ve seen firsthand what happens when students are given the resources and support to succeed—and I’m grateful to be recognized by Columbia College Chicago for work that is so close to my heart.”
The commencement events will confer undergraduate or graduate degrees upon more than one thousand students across two ceremonies scheduled Sunday morning (11 a.m.)—for graduates from Business & Entrepreneurship; Communication & Culture; Film & Television; Fashion—and afternoon (4:30 p.m.)—for Theatre & Dance; Audio & Music; Design; Visual Arts.
