Honorary Degrees

Objective

The granting of honorary degrees is a long standing tradition of universities. Other than the earned doctorate, the honorary degree is the highest recognition that the University of Georgia can bestow and is therefore not lightly given. It is intended to honor a person who has a sustained record of achievements of lasting significance.

Criteria

Persons nominated for consideration for honorary degrees should have made distinguished and broad contributions to society. These may be in the traditional areas of scholarship and creative arts, research and development, the learned professions, public service, or business and industry. The prime and controlling consideration should be excellence.

It is desirable, but by no means required, that the person selected have had some affiliation with the State of Georgia or the University of Georgia. It is also desirable, but by no means required, that the recipient of an honorary degree be widely known by the general public.

The following persons ordinarily would not be eligible:

  • Current elected or appointed national office holders
  • Officials of the State of Georgia to whom the University System of Georgia institutions are directly or indirectly answerable
  • Persons who are announced candidates for national or state elective offices
  • Current Regents and all current USG employees 

Process

An Honorary Degrees Committee appointed by the President is charged with the responsibility of screening nominees for an honorary degree. The Committee is composed of seven members holding three-year terms.

Early in the academic year the Committee will solicit through the offices of the vice presidents, deans, and University Council Executive Committee nominations for an honorary degree. Nominations must be supported by individuals who are knowledgeable in the nominee's field of accomplishment and who therefore are in a position to make an evaluation. Each nomination must be accompanied by three or more letters of nomination and a biographical sketch of the individual. The Committee may seek additional information.

The Honorary Degrees Committee will screen nominees and recommend, with supporting rationale, up to five finalists to the President. The President, based on the supporting rationale and any additional consultation, will consider the recommendations for this rare and distinct honor, and—if any honorary degree is deemed warranted—will make a recommendation to the Chancellor for consideration by the Board of Regents.