Policies of Colorado State University
University Policy
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Policy Title: Honorary Degrees | Category: Academic Affairs/Faculty |
Owner: Provost/Executive Vice President | Policy ID#: 1-1001-007 |
Contact: |
Original Effective Date: 3/2/2006 Last Revision: 8/2/2013 |
PURPOSE OF THIS POLICY
Honorary degrees awarded by Colorado State University recognize individuals who have attained achievements which are extraordinary and of lasting distinction. In awarding honorary degrees, the University 1) reaffirms its commitment to the principles of intellectual and professional achievement which underlie its mission, 2) confers honor and distinction upon those who have made outstanding contributions to the advancement of knowledge and artistry and to society, and 3) pays tribute to individuals whose association with Colorado State University brings honor and distinction to the University community.
Honorary degree candidates are expected to be of exceptional quality, having national or international prominence, and bring prestige to the University by their acceptance of the award.
POLICY STATEMENT
Criteria
Persons dedicated to the purpose, nature, and mission of the University, who have achieved outstanding distinction through civic, intellectual, philanthropic or artistic contributions to the development of the area, state, nation, and/ or the world may be nominated for an honorary degree in one or more of the following categories:
- Intellectual distinction in particular fields;
- Outstanding achievement in professional and/or personal capacities;
- Significant and lasting contributions to society;
- Exceptional acts of philanthropy to the university and/or to the nation or world.
Eligibility
Individuals who have demonstrated the appropriate criteria are eligible for nomination, with the exception of those individuals who are current members of the Board of Governors, faculty or staff currently employed by the University or current candidates or holders of federal or state elective office. Individuals may have an existing association with the University, such as affiliate or emeritus/emerita faculty.
Preference shall be given to nominations of persons who are connected in some significant way with the state or with the university, although a Colorado State University connection is not a prerequisite to an honorary degree. Generally, honorary degrees shall not be awarded in absentia, except when awarded posthumously.
Procedures
Procedures for awarding of honorary degrees may be found in the Honorary Degree Guidelines referenced below.
APPROVALS
Approved by Faculty Council Executive Committee and Council of Deans, March 2, 2006
Approved by Faculty Council August 2, 2013