Actor Val Kilmer to speak at William Woods graduation

"I'm your huckelberry."

It's not likely actor Val Kilmer used his famous line as Doc Holiday in the movie "Tombstone" when William Woods University President Jahnae Barnett's husband asked him to serve as graduation speaker this year, but it did involve a yes.

"My husband and I have a home in Santa Fe, and Val Kilmer does as well, and my husband and Val have become friends," Barnett said. "Somewhere along the way I got Eddie to ask Val if he would speak at our graduation, and we're thrilled to say, he said yes."

Kilmer, a prolific actor who made his mark in films such as "Willow," "The Doors," "The Saint" and "Top Gun" will address William Woods seniors during their May 5 commencement ceremony - and the news already has created a great buzz on campus.

"I think the fun is just beginning," Barnett said, laughing that she already has been approached by a number of students and staff wanting to know about their impending celebrity visit. "I'm going to do my best to make sure as many people as I can get to meet with him informally."

To help the tornado-stricken people of Dumas and surroundings, donations can be made to the Delta Area Disaster Relief Fund, care of the Delta Area Community Foundation, P.O. Box 894, Dumas, AR, 71639, or through the Arkansas Community Foundation, 700 S. Rock St., Little Rock, AR, 72202.