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As this year’s Commencement speaker, Lansing will receive an honorary doctorate degree during the ceremony that will be held on campus in Lake Forest, Illinois. 

Lansing has charted an inspiring course from his collegiate days to becoming a Grammy-winning musician. As one half of the acclaimed duo, The Okee Dokee Brothers, Lansing has seamlessly blended his love for the natural world with his passion for Americana folk music, creating a unique niche in family-friendly entertainment.

Growing up in Denver, Colorado, Lansing formed a lifelong friendship with Joe Mailander. Their shared love for music and adventure led them to establish The Okee Dokee Brothers, a project that combines their musical talents with a spirit of exploration. Their innovative approach involves embarking on month-long journeys—canoeing down the Mississippi River, trekking the Appalachian Trail, and horseback riding along the Continental Divide—during which they compose songs inspired by their experiences. This fusion of adventure and artistry has resonated with audiences nationwide, encouraging families to engage with nature and music in meaningful ways.

The duo’s dedication to authentic storytelling through music has garnered significant recognition. Their album “Can You Canoe?” earned the Grammy Award for Best Children’s Album in 2013, and subsequent works have received multiple nominations. Beyond their musical achievements, the two have authored children’s books and produced an animated film, “Brambletown,” which premiered on PBS KIDS in 2024.

Lansing’s journey exemplifies the transformative power of a liberal arts education, illustrating how diverse academic pursuits can harmoniously intersect with creative passions to forge impactful and fulfilling careers.

Related Links:

• More information about Commencement 2025
• Stream Brambletown by The Okee Dokee Brothers on YouTube Music
• Justin Lansing ’07 turns liberal arts education into Americana Folk music career with duo, The Okee Dokee Brothers