Honorary Degree
An honorary degree is recognized as one of education’s most significant accolades. WMU intends to award honorary degrees on a selective basis to exemplary individuals who merit distinguished recognition for genuine achievement and contribution within a field or activity that aligns with our core mission.
There are specific qualifications for candidacy and nominations will be vetted by the honorary degree committee.
History and purpose of honorary degrees
In 1944, WMU President, Paul V. Sangren awarded the first honorary degree. Since then, it has become a tradition that we recognize persons of exceptional scholarly, artistic, professional or humanitarian achievement who exemplify the mission of Western Michigan University and whose career or lifetime accomplishments serve as models of University ideals and aspirations for its students, faculty, staff and alumni.