Nominations open for 2027 Honorary Degree recipients

The University of New Mexico is now accepting nominations for 2027 Honorary Degree recipients.

The tradition recognizing Honorary Degree recipients at UNM began in 1924 when John J. Tigert, the U.S. Commissioner of Education, was awarded the LL.D. as the first UNM recipient of an Honorary Degree. In most years since, the Honorary Degree Committee has recognized at least one individual. Over the years, UNM has recognized more than 150 individuals with an Honorary Degree.

Honorary degrees are typically awarded to honor and recognize individuals' contributions to a specific field or to society in general. Strong candidates are eminent individuals and scholars whose contributions are of general significance and transcend geographical limitations. Nominations of individuals who have contributed significantly to the cultural or scientific development of the Southwest or the spiritual or material welfare of its people are especially welcome.

Each year, the subcommittee of the Faculty Senate Graduate & Professional Committee solicits nominations for honorary degree recipients. The Office of the University Secretary is currently seeking nominations to be awarded as part of its Spring 2027 Commencement.

A successful nominee must have an exemplary record of academic or public accomplishment in keeping with the University's standards of rigor, quality, and significance. The University awards honorary degrees at spring commencement.

Nominators should submit a letter stating in sufficient detail the reasons for the nomination. Please include biographical information, a record of accomplishment, and supporting letters. Because the Honorary Degree Committee must choose among illustrious nominees, provide as complete a nomination as possible.

The nominations should be sent to the Office of the University Secretary, Scholes Hall, Room 103 or [email protected], no later than Friday, Oct. 16, 2026, at 5 p.m.

If a nominee is proposed by a person, department, or college representing a discipline other than that of the nominee (e.g., Music nominates an engineer), the Committee will consult with the appropriate faculty before making a recommendation.

The Honorary Degree Policy and a listing of past honorary degree recipients are available on the University Secretary's website.