MSU seeks honorary doctorate candidates

Missouri State University is seeking nominations for the university's annual honorary doctorate, school officials announced today.

The honorary doctorate program - approved by the Board of Governors in 2002 - recognizes the extraordinary achievements of distinguished citizens. Any member of the MSU community, including alumni, may nominate candidates for the degree before Sept. 30, according to an MSU news release.

Four types of honorary doctorates may be bestowed:

• the Doctor of Humane Letters, given to individuals who have distinguished themselves in the humanities;

• the Doctor of Letters, given to scholars in particular disciplines;

• the Doctor of Public Affairs, given to those with distinguished general service to the public, learning and mankind; and

• the Doctor of Science, given to those who have made distinguished contributions to sciences.

The individual chosen for an honorary doctorate should have strong community, state or regional ties, and although those with nationwide and worldwide recognition won't be excluded, preference will be given to nominees who haven't been widely recognized.

Current MSU staff, faculty and administration, as well as members of the MSU Board of Governors and elected officials now in office are not eligible.

All nominations are kept confidential and should include a formal letter of nomination with detailed information about the nominee's qualifications, including education, publications and community service. Nomination letters and supporting documentation should be sent to Paula Kemp, chairwoman of the honorary doctorate committee, in the MSU mathematics department, 901 S. National Ave., Springfield, MO 65897.