Mission Statement, Criteria and Nomination Process for Awarding Honorary Doctorate Degree

To recognize individual exemplary and substantial leadership, notable accomplishments, discoveries, service, and enduring contributions that reflect and represent the values of Purdue University, in order to bestow our highest honor, the Honorary Doctorate.

The candidates to be chosen for eligibility will exemplify Purdue University’s values as an institution, unwavering integrity, uncompromising character, and meet ALL THREE criteria as described below.

A. Professional Accomplishment: Academic and industry accomplishments with sustained achievements of distinction; influential contributions within business, government, academia, military, and/or entrepreneurialism; national/global honors awarded within discipline or interdisciplinary achievements; significant discoveries and research; highest level of academic scholarship and recognition.

B. Commitment to Serve: Impact and contributions to nation and humanity; transformational, influential and innovative leadership; significant impact and development and mentorship of others; demonstrated commitment to benefiting society; entrepreneurially inspired contributions; commercialization efforts that bring elements to life for positive universal influence.

C. Commitment to Purdue and the State of Indiana: Profound commitment, involvement, leadership and service toward Purdue University (required) or to the State of Indiana (as appropriate); exceptional participation, demonstration, and commitment to the betterment of the student body, faculty, and on-campus involvement; and generosity toward the evolution of making Purdue University and the community a better place.

All nominations for honorary degrees will be reviewed by the appropriate faculty, the dean of the college/school, and the University Promotions Committee. The provost will then review and recommend the final candidates to the president, who in turn will make the formal nomination for consideration by the Board of Trustees.

All nominations for honorary degrees will be reviewed by the appropriate faculty, the dean of the college/school, and the campus-level promotions committee. The vice chancellor for academic affairs will then review and recommend the final candidates to the chancellor. The chancellor will review the candidates and make a recommendation to the president, who in turn will make the formal nomination for consideration by the Board of Trustees.

Candidates for the honorary doctorate are expected to be present for the awarding of the degree at the appropriate commencement ceremony. Should a candidate not be available, his or her nomination may be carried over to a subsequent year for reconsideration.