Actress/singer Vanessa Williams, 45, graduated from Syracuse University on Saturday, nearly 25 years after she dropped out.

Williams studied musical theater at Syracuse from 1981 to 1983, and then she quit her studies to become the first black Miss America in 1983. She had to give up the crown though, after she appeared in Penthouse magazine, in several sexually explicit photographs that had been taken before she earned the title.

Wearing a cap and gown, Williams delivered the convocation address to graduates of Syracuse's College of Visual and Performing Arts, encouraging them to “treasure the moment.” Williams graduated along with 480 other students, who said they were excited to have such a big star among them.

"These days are irreplaceable and are the beginning of the rest of your life," Williams said in her speech. "Treasure the moment."

Although the “Ugly Betty” star never completed her studies, she the remaining credits for her degree through industry experience and performances both on stage and on screen.

The nine-time Grammy nominee starred on Broadway, on television and in films and has sold more than 4 million music albums so far. She has also won a Tony and two NAACP Image Awards.

The star was very proud after receiving her bachelor of fine arts degree and was happy to show it to her mother and children.

In 1996, Williams received the George Arents Pioneer Medal, the university's most prestigious alumni award, the Associated Press informs.