Filmmaker Steven Spielberg is scheduled to deliver the commencement speech at Harvard University.

Steven Spielberg attends "The BFG (Le Bon Gros Geant - Le BGG)" premiere during the 69th annual Cannes Film Festival at the Palais des Festivals on May 14, 2016 in Cannes, France. (Photo by Ian Gavan/Getty Images)
Steven Spielberg attends "The BFG (Le Bon Gros Geant - Le BGG)" premiere during the 69th annual Cannes Film Festival at the Palais des Festivals on May 14, 2016 in Cannes, France. (Photo by Ian Gavan/Getty Images)
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The three-time Academy Award winner will address graduates at a ceremony Thursday afternoon.

Harvard President Drew Faust has praised Spielberg as an extraordinary storyteller, adding that "through his art, Mr. Spielberg has challenged us to dream and to see the world anew."

Spielberg has won Oscars for best picture and best director for "Schindler's List," and best director for "Saving Private Ryan." One of his earliest hits, "Jaws," was filmed primarily on the Massachusetts island of Martha's Vineyard.

He earned a degree from California State University, Long Beach, in 2002, after dropping out from the school in the 1960s.

Harvard officials say Spielberg is not being paid for his appearance.

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