HONORARY DEGREES AWARDED - The University of North Dakota held its first commencement on June 14, 1889 -- the same year North Dakota became a state. Six women and two men received diplomas during a ceremony filled with oratory and reflection on the University's beginnings.

Honorary degrees have long been awarded by institutions of higher learning to recognize lives of achievement. In 1909 UND presented its first honorary degree, a Doctor of Laws, to Webster Merrifield, who served the University for 25 years, including 18 as its third president.

Honorary degrees from UND particularly recognize those with an association with the University or with the state and region; they also have been presented to such notables as philosopher Mortimer Adler, heart surgeon Michael DeBakey and President John F. Kennedy.

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