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Honorary Degrees A tradition at Emory since 1846

Since the awarding of the first honorary degree by the University of Oxford, in the 15th century, the practice of awarding honorary degrees has implied a two-way exchange of esteem. And it is precisely that way six centuries later here at Emory. The compact with our honorary degree recipients works like this:

We, Emory, award you a degree because you have done something significant for humanity. Specific areas of consideration include transformational achievement in the arts, dedication to improving the human condition, fostering sustainability, enlarging the frontier of science or medicine, exploring the human spirit, and creative philanthropy. You, in turn, elevate our reputation by lending us your prestige.

We are yours, as you are ours. You represent us as you inspire us.