Policy 1-9 Rev
Date February 14, 1975

Subject: HONORARY DEGREES

I. POLICY

A. Standards

1. Honorary degrees are awarded upon recommendation by the president and approval by the Board of Trustees to individuals who have achieved unusual distinction in academic pursuits, in the arts, in the professions, in business, in government, in civic affairs, or in service to the university.

2. The selection of honorary degree recipients should be made in a manner that will bring honor to both the recipients and the university.

3. Honorary degrees generally will be awarded only at official commencements or at special convocations held on the campus of the university.

B. Limitations

1. No limit is set on the number of honorary degrees that may be awarded, but the number should never become so large as to diminish their significance or importance.

2. Honorary degrees will not be awarded in absentia.

3. Honorary degrees will not be awarded to members of the Board of Trustees while they are serving in that capacity.

II. PROCEDURE

A. Nominations

1. Nominations of individuals to be considered for honorary degrees may be submitted to the president by any member of the faculty or staff of the university, as well as by Board members, alumni, and friends of the university. Each nomination should be in writing and should contain the full name of the nominee plus the following information:

Date of birth.

Chronological list of academic degrees earned and the institutions granting them.

Chronological summary of vocational achievements.

Other career history or experience that is deemed relevant to the nomination.

List of important publications and/or scholarly activities not enumerated under one of the preceding items.

List of memberships in learned societies, professional association, and civic organizations, etc.

List of significant honors already attained.

Any additional comments that add interest or pertinent information concerning the nominee.

2. Nominations should be submitted to the president according to the following schedule:

For May Commencement -- not later than November 1.

For Special Convocations -- not later than three months before the date of the Special Convocation.

3. The President will submit the list of nominees to the Honorary Degrees Committee of the Board. This committee, after consultation with the president, will make its selection of honorary degree recipients and submit its choice, or choices, to the Board of Trustees for final approval.

4. All matters pertaining to the nomination and selection of honorary degree candidates are confidential.

Approved: Institutional Council 2/10/75.

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