Ben Affleck receives honorary degree from Brown University

Ben Affleck joined 2013 Brown University graduates when he accepted an honorary doctorate of fine arts from the Providence, R.I., school. Joined by writer Junot Diaz and other honorees, the Oscar-winner donned a cap and gown for the Ivy League's graduation ceremony on Sunday.

The 40-year-old actor and director wasn't expected to speak, according to the Boston Globe, but stepped up to the podium when the crowd began shouting, "Speech!"

"In terms of higher ed, I’ve now passed Matt Damon," Affleck said of the Harvard grad, his long-time friend.

Graduating with @benaffleck! Congrats Brown Class of 2013!! twitter.com/jennynarv/stat…

— Jenny (@jennynarv) May 26, 2013