Sara Blakely’s Education and Degree from Florida State University

Florida State University awarded an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters to alumna and entrepreneur Sara Blakely during the university’s spring commencement ceremonies on May 1 and May 2, 2026. Blakely, the founder of Spanx and Sneex, received the honor as the university’s 133rd honorary degree, a distinction reserved for individuals whose service and achievements have created a lasting impact on society.

President Richard McCullough presided over the events held at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center. Blakely served as a commencement speaker for two separate ceremonies: the College of Arts and Sciences event at 7 p.m. On May 1, and a 9 a.m. Ceremony on May 2 for several colleges, including the Jim Moran College of Entrepreneurship and the College of Communication & Information.

Entrepreneurial Background and Business Ventures

Blakely’s recognition by her alma mater follows a career defined by category-creating invention. She graduated from Florida State University in 1993 with a bachelor’s degree in communication.

In 2000, Blakely launched Spanx with an initial investment of $5,000. The company revolutionized the shapewear industry after Blakely developed a prototype by cutting the feet off her own pantyhose to achieve a smoother appearance under white pants. She grew the venture into a global brand specializing in innovative and comfortable apparel.

A significant transition in her business portfolio occurred in 2021, when Blakely sold a majority stake in Spanx. Despite the sale, she has remained part owner and executive chairwoman of the company.

Blakely expanded her entrepreneurial reach into the footwear market in 2024 with the launch of Sneex. The brand features a design intended to merge the style of a heel with the comfort of a sneaker.

Philanthropy and Industry Recognition

Beyond her corporate ventures, Blakely is recognized for her philanthropic efforts and advocacy for women’s empowerment. She has donated millions through the Red Backpack Foundation and is a signatory of The Giving Pledge. Her financial contributions have also funded invention education programs and scholarships for thousands of girls.

Her influence has been acknowledged globally, including being named one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential People. In May 2026, she is also scheduled for induction into the National Inventors Hall of Fame.

Spring 2026 Commencement Details

The honorary degree was part of a broader graduation series in which Florida State University awarded 8,923 degrees. The breakdown of these degrees included:

• 6,732 bachelor’s degrees
• 1,523 master’s and specialist degrees
• 261 doctoral degrees
• 140 Juris Doctor degrees
• 140 Juris Master’s degrees
• Nine LL.M. Degrees

Approximately 7,190 graduates were expected to participate in the ceremonies. Other notable speakers during the spring commencement included the Honorable Daniel Perez, speaker of the Florida House of Representatives, and Lt. Gen. Sean M. Farrell, deputy commanding general of U.S. Special Operations Command at MacDill Air Force Base.

Lt. Gen. Farrell, an FSU alumnus, addressed graduates from the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, College of Nursing, and Anne Spencer Daves College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences on May 1, as well as the Herbert Wertheim College of Business on May 2.