The University of Michigan encourages its community to nominate individuals for honorary degrees, acknowledging those who have made significant contributions to their fields or society. President Domenico Grasso emphasized the importance of honoring individuals whose talents, ideas, and leadership have shaped the world. “We look forward to recognizing exemplary individuals who have shaped our world with their ideas, talents, service and leadership,” he stated.
More information
Nominees should have significantly advanced their fields or made compelling societal contributions. The nomination committee, led by Rackham Graduate School Dean Michael J. Solomon, comprises faculty, students, and alumni from the Ann Arbor, Flint, and Dearborn campuses, all appointed by the Board of Regents. They meet in fall, spring, and summer. The deadline for the 2026 winter and 2027 spring Commencement is 5 p.m. Sept. 22.
Solomon invites the university community to nominate individuals who exemplify the institution’s aspirations. “Our faculty, students, staff and alumni are ideally suited to bring forward honorary degree nominations that bring honor to our university and its mission,” Solomon stated. U-M commencement speakers often come from those approved for honorary degrees.
Prominent past recipients include jazz musician Wynton Marsalis, President Barack Obama, author Brad Meltzer, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, neurosurgeon Sanjay Gupta, U.S. Justice Sonia Sotomayor, journalist Christiane Amanpour, artist Michele Oka Doner, poet Rita Dove, and economist Robert J. Shiller.
—
Read More Michigan News
