An honorary degree is one of higher education's most significant accolades.  It is the policy of Southern States University to award honorary degrees on a selective basis, to distinguished individuals who merit special recognition for their achievements and distinction in a field or activity consistent with the mission of the University, through their significant achievements and contributions to society.  Only the Board of Directors may authorize the award of an honorary degree.

Honorary Degree Granting Criteria

In awarding Honorary Degrees, the University accomplishes several objectives: It pays tribute to those whose life and works exemplify professional, intellectual, or artistic achievement. It recognizes and demonstrates appreciation for those who have made significant contributions to society, their state or country, and/or 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 the University's own achievements and priorities.

Honorary degrees may be conferred upon those who have achieved distinction
through outstanding intellectual or creative achievements, or through outstanding leadership in education, business, public service or other appropriate sectors of society.

Guidelines

1. The honorary degree shall be awarded to recognize only exceptional accomplishments as outlined in the above guidelines. The nominee's special achievements or contributions to society shall be the fundamental consideration, and shall be evaluated without regard to the nominee's attainment of influential position or financial status.

2. The nominee shall have gained distinction worthy of recognition extending well beyond his/her own field of endeavor and geographical area of activity.

3. Although it is recognized that it is desirable for the nominee to have a tie to Southern States University, such a connection shall not be a requirement.

4. So long as the nominee clearly meets the criteria, his/her selection shall not be affected by the number of previous similar honors received.

5. Current and former faculty and staff of Southern States University shall meet the same criteria as other nominees.
6. Elected or appointed officials of Southern States University shall not be eligible as honorary degree candidates during their terms of office.

7. Except on special occasions or in unusual circumstances, the number of honorary degrees awarded at any given ceremony shall be limited to three.

8. The honorary degree shall be conferred at the regular university Graduation ceremony, or at a special assembly or convocation.

9. The Academic Committee of the University shall review all nominees and shall forward its recommendations to the Board of Directors. The Board shall not award an honorary degree to any nominee who is not the subject of an affirmative recommendation by the Academic Committee.

Expiration of the Board’s Approval

A school may award an honorary degree to an approved candidate at any time within two years of the Board's granting of that approval.  After that time, the school must again secure the Board's approval of the candidate in order to award the honorary degree.

Prohibition of Fees and Honoraria

Except under unusual circumstances when the Board of Directors determines otherwise, an honorary degree recipient shall not receive a speaker's fee or honorarium for accepting an honorary degree or delivering a commencement address or the equivalent.

Presence at Commencement or other Official Ceremonies

No honorary degree shall be conferred unless the recipient is present.


Nomination Dossier:

To be considered for an honorary degree, the following items must be included in the dossier for the Honorary Degree Committee's deliberations:

• a cover page listing the primary contact person for the nomination, including address, phone number, and a list of supporting materials;

• although nominations frequently have more that one nominator,  specify the name of one individual as the primary contact for the nomination and provide an address and phone number;

• a formal letter of nomination setting forth the nominee's qualifications relative to the criteria, principles, and guidelines cited above;

• Curriculum Vitae or resume;

• other supporting letters, pertinent data, or additional relevant information which may be deemed appropriate.

Nominees chosen by the Honorary Degree Committee are forwarded to the University for consideration by the Board of Directors.  Decisions are not released to the public until after a vote by the Board of Directors. Nominators will not receive notification until the process is complete.

Address nominations by January 31st to:

Robert Tepper, Chancellor
Southern States University
1729 5th Avenue
San Diego, CA 92101