Selection Process

Committee Review

  • The Honorary Degrees Committee will review all nominations and will request further information and formal letters of nomination and support for those who are selected as finalists.
  • According to the System guidelines, only five candidates may be sent forward by the committee to the Faculty Council as nominees each Fall. Those approved by Faculty Council will be sent forward for approval by the Chancellor (for MU, the Provost), then to the UM System Honors Committee, the President, and the Board of Curators.
  • Candidates selected by the Board of Curators for this honor will be notified by the Chancellor’s Office and asked to accept the degree in person on campus at a May or December graduation.

Timeline

  • 3rd Friday in October | Chancellors submit nomination packets to UM Academic Affairs
  • 3rd Monday in December | UM System Honors Committee forwards recommendations to president
  • 3rd Monday in January | President forwards recommendations to Board of Curators
  • 3rd Monday in February | With Board approval, president notifies Chancellors and sends formal letter to candidates

Confidentiality

This is a lengthy selection process, and all nominees’ names must remain confidential throughout.