UK Graduate School Now Accepting Nominations for Honorary Degrees

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Sept. 29, 2015) — This year the University of Kentucky will select up to four honorees to receive honorary doctorates at the May 2016 Commencement Ceremonies. An honorary doctorate recognizes those persons who exemplify the ideals of the University of Kentucky through sustained achievement and distinction of national or international significance.

Honorary degrees may be conferred upon those who have achieved distinction through outstanding intellectual or creative achievements, or through outstanding leadership in education, business or public service. The UK Graduate School welcomes nominations of individuals who merit this high level of recognition.

In awarding honorary degrees, the university accomplishes several purposes. It pays tribute to those whose life and work exemplify professional, intellectual or artistic achievement. It recognizes and appreciates those who have made significant contributions to society, the state and the university. It highlights the diverse ways in which such contributions can be made, and it sends a message that principles, values and contributions are important. Well-chosen honorees affirm and dignify UK’s own achievements and priorities.

The honoree must ultimately agree to be present at Commencement to receive the honorary degree. See www.research.uky.edu/gs/About/honorary_degrees.html for eligibility guidelines and nomination requirements.

The deadline to submit a completed nomination is midnight Monday, Nov. 9, 2015. 

Nominees chosen by the University Joint Committee on Honorary Degrees are forwarded to the University Senate for consideration by elected faculty senators. Decisions are not released to the public until after a vote by the Board of Trustees. Nominators will not receive notification until the process is complete.

Please direct questions to Morris Grubbs, assistant dean of the Graduate School, at morris.grubbs@uky.edu or 859-257-9725.

MEDIA CONTACT: Blair Hoover, 859-257-6398; blair.hoover@uky.edu