Honorary Degree Collection

Collection

Identifier: EUA084

Staff Only

Abstract

This collection contains materials related to the honorary degrees awarded by Elon University dating from 1891- present. This collection includes materials such as correspondences, press releases, awards, and member lists, among other printed materials. The collection is arranged chronologically and then alphabetically by type of material. Specification to type of material is given where necessary.

Dates

1934 - ongoing

Conditions Governing Access

Collection is open for research.

Copyright Notice

The nature of the Archives and Special Collections of Belk Library means that copyright or other information about restrictions may be difficult or even impossible to determine despite reasonable efforts. The Archives and Special Collections of Belk Library claims only physical ownership of most materials. The materials from our collections are made available for use in research, teaching, and private study, pursuant to the U.S. Copyright Law. The user must assume full responsibility for any use of the materials, including but not limited to, infringement of copyright and publication rights of reproduced materials. Any materials used for academic research of otherwise should be fully credited with the source.

Biographical / Historical

Elon University has awarded numerous individuals honorary degrees. Charles J. Jones received a Doctor of Divinity honorary degree in 1891. He was the first person to receive an honorary degree from Elon College. The most recent individual to be awarded an honorary degree was Allen F. Gant, Jr. who received a Doctor of Humane Letters in 2010. Honorary degree candidates are recommended by the honorary degree advisory committee. The committee includes: the Provost, the Vice President for Institutional Advancement, and four faculty members. Recipients of honorary degrees are chosen to receive their degree based on their tremendous leadership, involvement, commitment, and success in their chosen profession throughout their lives. Some influential figures who have received honorary degrees from Elon include Lyndon Baines Johnson, former Vice-President of the United States, and former United States President Harry S. Truman. However, Harry Truman did not receive his award in person at Elon College because of World War II. Rather, Congressman Carl Dunham of North Carolina's 6th District represented President Truman in receiving the award on Truman's behalf.

Extent

0.5 Linear Feet (1 archival box)

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Arrangement

The collection is arranged chronologically and then alphabetically by type of material. Specification to type of material is given where necessary.

Physical Location

The collection is located in the Carol Grotnes Belk Library Archives and Special Collections at Elon University. Please contact the Archives and Special Collections staff for further details about the location.