WINSTON-SALEM -- Broadway, film and TV star Kristin Chenoweth told college graduates at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA) on May 30 that “art has the power to change lives. … What we do isn’t brain surgery,” she said, “but what we do is important: We inspire.” She also told the grads to follow their vision, to take risks, and don’t be afraid to fail, “because that’s the only way you can grow.”

To see her complete commencement address, click here. (Large file; wait until connection is made before clicking on play arrow.)

Chenoweth slipped out of her regalia to entertain the graduates with “You’ll Never Know,” accompanied by a UNCSA music ensemble conducted by UNCSA Chancellor and Maestro John Mauceri, with whom she has performed on many occasions, including his last concert with the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra, and since then at benefit concerts for the Motion Picture and Television Fund. She called his invitation to speak at UNCSA “a huge honor I do not take lightly.”

Chenoweth also received an honorary doctorate at the ceremony, which was held at UNCSA's Stevens Center in downtown Winston-Salem.

Chenoweth can currently be seen in ABC's Pushing Daisies, for which she received an Emmy nomination, and is appearing in two new Fox comedies, Glee and Sit Down, Shut Up. Her new book, "A Little Bit Wicked," references the role she originated on Broadway, Glinda the Good Witch in Wicked, which earned her a Tony Nomination. Chenoweth was most recently seen as one of the presenters at the 63rd Annual Tony Awards, on June 7.

Two hundred and twelve college students graduated from the University of North Carolina School of the Arts on May 30.

Also at the ceremony, UNCSA School of Music faculty member Marilyn Taylor was presented with the UNC Board of Governors Excellence in Teaching Award, and Claire and Hudnall Christopher were presented with the Giannini Award.

Scenes from the day follow.

Left, Chancellor John Mauceri and Board of Trustees Chair Charles C. Lucas III present Kristin Chenoweth with her honorary doctorate and UNCSA medallion. Right, Chancellor Mauceri and Ms. Chenoweth pause in the Green Room prior to going on stage.

Left, Chancellor Mauceri recognizes retiring Chief Academic Officer Elaine Pruitt. Right, Ms. Chenoweth gives her commencement address.

Left, Claire Christopher speaks as her husband, Hudnall Christopher, holds the Giannini Award the couple were presented. Right, Maestro Mauceri, in tails, and Ms. Chenoweth prepare to entertain the graduates.

Ms. Chenoweth sings "You'll Never Know," accompanied by a graduating student ensemble conducted by Maestro Mauceri.

Students receive their degrees and diplomas.

Left, Marilyn Taylor addresses the graduates after receiving the UNC Board of Governors Excellence in Teaching Award. Right, Chancellor Mauceri commands the degrees and diplomas -- accompanied by Hogwarts Headmaster Dumbledore (aka Dean Rick Miller) -- to appear.

                                                                                                                               Photos by Steve Davis