42°
Longtime Today show weatherman Al Roker got an unexpected forecast of his own: Siena College is awarding him with an honorary doctorate degree. And the news came in the most fitting way possible–on live TV.
During a special “breaking news” segment by the college’s student-run SCTV News team on Wednesday, Feb. 26, Roker joined from the Today studios in Manhattan to give a campus-centric forecast for Loudonville.
After assuring students that the frigid days were numbered, Roker heard from Siena alum and NBC executive producer Tom Mazzarelli, who had a forecast of his own:
“There’s another reason we asked you to stick around. You’ve been named Siena’s 2025 honorary degree recipient and the commencement speaker,” Mazzarelli told Roker. “I can’t think of anyone more deserving. Great broadcaster, great guy, all-round gem, gem of a person.”
Cue the sunny smiles. “I love that,” Roker responded. “I am thrilled.”
Mazzarelli made it official, telling Roker, “You will be awarded a Doctorate of Humane Letters, Dr. Roker. It sounds official, right?”
Never missing a beat, Roker quipped, “Well, I am forecasting we are gonna have a great time in May.”
The honorary degree is the highest distinction Siena College can bestow, recognizing Roker’s legendary broadcasting career, warm-hearted storytelling, and impact on journalism and media.
Roker will deliver the undergraduate commencement address on Sunday, May 18, at MVP Arena in Albany, where around 850 graduates will receive their diplomas.
At 70, Roker has been a household name for decades. Since joining Today in 1996, he’s covered countless storms, presidential inaugurations, and even attempted to break the Guinness World Record for longest live weather broadcast.
Beyond the green screen, he’s also an occasional mystery novelist, with his books even inspiring a Hallmark movie.
Check out video of Siena's surprise announcement below.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Farmingdale and receive free news updates.
