Ferrum College President Dr. Jerry M. Boone recently received Oklahoma City University's highest honor, the Doctor of Humane Letters. The honorary degree is given to demonstrate appreciation and esteem for prominent citizens and friends of the institution.
     Dr. Boone received the honor during OCU's Commencement exercises on Friday, December 15, and he also gave the commencement address to the 280 December graduates.
Dr. Boone joins a select group of recipients of the honorary degree from OCU. Past honored include United States Supreme Court Justice Harry A. Blackmun, Senator Lyndon B. Johnson, and Bishop John Wesley Hardt.
     According to OCU, "the conferral of the honorary degree shows the commitment of the University to the recognition and development of strong leadership for religious, civic, business, political, and cultural institutions. The degrees embody the University's gratitude and encouragement for the influence and achievements of each recipient."
     The custom of honoring select individuals in this fashion dates back to 1692 when Harvard University awarded the first such degree, beginning a practice which has developed into one of the most prestigious recognitions universities give to distinguished citizens.

###