Dear Members of the Campus Community,

As we look ahead to Commencement in spring 2024, we invite you to help us recognize the extraordinary individuals who embody our institution's values and aspirations.

Honorary degrees are more than just awards; they are expressions of our high regard for individuals who have made an enduring impact on our world. They are an opportunity to inspire our students and renew our dedication to promoting change that is truly transformative.

We seek nominations for individuals who have excelled in their respective fields and exemplify the mission and values of Puget Sound, particularly our core values of intellectual curiosity, ethical leadership and global engagement.

If you are aware of someone who meets these criteria and has made significant contributions to their chosen profession; arts and letters; championed social justice; or contributed to the advancement of shared knowledge and understanding, we encourage you to submit a nomination for an honorary degree. Your recommendation will be carefully considered by a committee composed of faculty, trustees, students and alumni.

Nominations are now open and will be accepted until Friday, Nov. 17. When nominating someone, please be sure to describe how they align with Puget Sound’s mission and values. All members of the campus community are encouraged to submit nominations.  You can find additional information about the honorary degree process by reviewing the guidelines for the Committee on Honorary Degrees, which provides additional context about the establishment of this committee and its policies and procedures, as well as the roster of recent honorary degree recipients.

I would also like to extend special thanks to the members of the 2023-24 Committee on Honorary Degrees for their service:

  • Jamilia J. Sherls-Jones '05, Chair and Trustee
  • Emily S. Ehrens '14, Trustee
  • Erin M. Carlson '04, Alumni Member
  • Ken Teal '81, Alumni Member
  • Julian Cañeda-Santos '24, Student Member
  • Jack Simermeyer '24, Student Member
  • Lisa Ferrari, Faculty Member
  • Renee Simms, Faculty Member
  • Drew Kerkhoff, Provost, Ex Officio

Thank you for your commitment to the University of Puget Sound. We look forward to receiving your nominations, and greatly appreciate your engagement with this important process.

Sincerely,

Isiaah Crawford, Ph.D. | President