Honorary Degrees

• Honorary Degree Recipients (PDF)

Other than the earned doctorate, the greatest recognition the University of Florida can give an individual is an honorary degree.  Such awards are not given lightly, and relatively few are awarded.  The awarding of an honorary degree is in recognition of eminent achievement in scholarship or high distinction in public service which exemplifies the purposes and ideals of the University of Florida.  More particularly, honorary degrees are awarded for sustained achievements of lasting significance and value, not for a single accomplishment.  Preference is given to individuals who are connected in some significant and meaningful way with the state or with the university.

Under no circumstances can a college or other unit of the University of Florida grant an Honorary Degree and only the University can give the Distinguished Awards.  However, colleges may provide other recognitions or honors when it is clearly not a University award.  Examples of these awards could include "Outstanding Psychology Graduate" or "Distinguished Journalism Alumnus."

Because the University of Florida is a public university and part of the State University System, the university's policy is that elected or appointed officials of the State of Florida or the Federal Government to whom the university is directly or indirectly answerable are ineligible for honorary degrees.  Faculty members, officers, and employees of the university are also ineligible.

 Anyone can nominate an individual for an honorary degree.  The nomination must be supported by individuals who are prominent in the candidate's field of accomplishment and in a position to judge the candidate's contributions and achievements.  For nominees in the areas of scholarship or the creative arts, the appropriate academic authorities on campus are normally consulted before a recommendation is made by the Committee.   For nominees in the area of public service and achievement, assessment of the nominee's accomplishments and standing is normally solicited from the appropriate, knowledgeable persons or agencies.  Strong support from such knowledgeable authorities in the different areas is essential for the success of the nomination.

After review of all materials, the Committee makes its recommendation to the Faculty Senate.  Upon approval by the senate, the recommendation then goes to the president of the university, who then makes a recommendation to the Board of Trustees for action.  The Board is final authority.