Dr. Boyce Watkins

Boyce D. Watkins, known as "The People's Scholar," is a distinguished social commentator and advocate for education, economic empowerment, and social justice. His work challenges the traditional paradigms of academic achievement and leadership within the African American community. Watkins often emphasizes the practical application of knowledge, famously stating, "We don't need more PhD’s in the black community; we need more Ph.Dos.”

Watkins has made significant contributions to public discourse through a variety of media appearances, including CNN, Good Morning America, MSNBC, FOX News, BET, NPR, Essence, USA Today, The Today Show, ESPN, The Tom Joyner Morning Show, and CBS Sports. He is a regular political expert on "Keeping it Real with Al Sharpton" and is a preferred financial expert and social commentator on "The Wendy Williams Experience," which reaches an audience of 11 million listeners nationwide.

Through his "Step Up and Go to College Tour," Watkins has passionately spoken to over 50,000 black youth, encouraging them to pursue higher education. In collaboration with influential figures like Al Sharpton, Marc Lamont Hill, and Jesse Jackson, he has taken an active role in initiatives aimed at reducing dropout rates among African American students, following an initiative announced by President Obama.

As a financial speaker, Watkins has delivered impactful messages through his series "Get your Paper Straight" and "Black Love, Black Money, Black Relationships." He has appeared in over 150 national television, radio, and print interviews in the last two years, offering advice on financial empowerment and personal development.

Watkins is also a faculty affiliate with the College Sports Research Institute at The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. He has been a vocal proponent for the fair compensation of college athletes and has criticized the NCAA's tax-exempt status, arguing for systemic reform in how athletes are treated and compensated.

Academically, Watkins excelled early, earning BA and BS degrees with a triple major in finance, economics, and business management, and was recognized as the “Outstanding Graduating Senior in Finance” by The Wall Street Journal. He holds a MA in mathematical statistics from The University of Kentucky and a PhD in finance from Ohio State University, being the only black American to earn a PhD in finance in 2002. He continues his academic and mentoring roles as a finance professor at Syracuse University.