Before you read any further, it’s very important you watch last Friday’s video, especially around the 1:12 mark, when Sam gets the good news.
It’s a very exciting time indeed. Sam the Spam can was awarded an honorary degree from Harvard University last Friday, December 19th. His family, including Pam the Spam Can and their daughter, Spamantha, were also present for this momentous occasion.
Spamantha flew all the way in from London for the ceremony!
Never before has a sentient can of processed meat received an award of such prestige. It may not be the FIFA Peace Prize, but it’s a step in that direction. Here’s some background on Sam and how Friday’s degree came to be.
Back in 2020, in the early days of the pandemic, Sam joined the Washington Post TikTok team as a production assistant. Of course, he is best known for his work as a bartender.
As the pandemic continued into 2021, Sam’s presence became less frequent, though he continued to be a fan favorite. He shocked fans when his expiration date came and went, having no apparent effect on his work ethic. Yes, in many ways, Sam is the Dick Van Dyke of canned meat.
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Indeed, Sam persevered and eventually took a break from short-form news video to focus on his autobiography, “One hand, two eyes, and a dream: My journey from a factory in Minnesota to the For You Page.” It was an instant hit, catching the attention of media professors at Harvard, who offered him a teaching job.
Students immediately embraced Sam (gently, and carefully, so as not to open his expired insides), giving him one of the highest ratings ever received on RateMyProfessor.com.
Congrats of the degree Sam the Spam Can! You finally made it and were all so proud!
As I prepared to leave my job at The Washington Post to co-found Local News International, Sam was already rising in the ranks at Harvard. I’ll admit, I have often felt overshadowed by his accomplishments. But Sam has been so steadfast and firm in his commitment to the truth, it’s impossible to not cheer him on.
Just as we reached 200,000 subscribers on YouTube, Harvard announced that Sam would receive his degree in a special ceremony before the holiday break.
Sam was all smiles as the crowd cheered his name.
And so, on December 19th, 2025, Sam the Sam can received an honorary degree from Harvard University. Please join me in congratulating Sam on all social media platforms. And consider sharing this article so more people can know of Sam’s contributions.
Dave
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