If you know a classmate or other alum who you believe should be nominated for an honorary degree, the Honorary Degree Committee encourages you to submit nominations to Honorary Degree Committee, Office of the Secretary, Swarthmore College, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA 19081-1390 or contact Nancy Nicely, secretary of the College, nnicely1@swarthmore.edu. Please enclose complete background information including your own reasons for choosing your nominee and submit by noon Monday, Oct. 7. Please note that all nominations will be kept confidential and that it is not good practice to inform the nominee. The Committee will forward its recommendations for faculty approval in mid-November.

Criteria considered by the Honorary Degree Committee include distinction, leadership, or originality in a significant field of endeavor; someone at the ascent or peak of distinction, with preference to the less honored over those with multiple degrees; ability to serve as a role model and Commencement speaker on a major occasion in graduating seniors’ lives; preference for (but not required) individuals who have an existing affiliation with or some connection to the College community. The Committee seeks balance in a variety of categories such as careers, gender, academic discipline, race, ethnicity, and public service.