Dear York College Community,
We are now accepting nominations for honorary degrees to be conferred at our 2025 commencement ceremonies. We invite you to submit nominations for individuals who have made exceptional contributions to our academic community, society, and various fields of knowledge.
Purpose
Honorary degrees represent the College’s highest tribute, recognizing individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the College, academia, or society at large. These degrees acknowledge exceptional achievement and establish enduring ties between the College and distinguished individuals.
Eligibility Criteria
Nominees should demonstrate exceptional achievement in one or more of the following categories:
1. Persons of national or international reputation in an academic discipline that holds a significant place in York’s curriculum;
2. Persons who have made significant contributions in either thought or action to American higher education or in a professional field closely related to an academic interest of the University or York College;
3. Persons who have made significant contributions over a sustained period of time to the development of major programs at the University or at York College;
4. Persons who have given long and distinguished service to the University or York College, including those who have been in its employ and who have been retired or otherwise separated from the University for a period of at least three years;
5. Persons who have made major contributions to furthering principles that are at the center of the University’s purpose and mission.
Restrictions
Currently serving elected officials at the city, state, or federal levels are not eligible for consideration during their terms of office. Nominations should reflect individuals who clearly merit such distinguished recognition.
Nomination Process
Required Documentation
Please include in your nomination package:
1. A cover letter briefly introducing the honorary degree candidate and summarizing their key achievements and contributions
2. A 300-500 word statement that comprehensively describes the candidate's merits, including:
• Notable accomplishments in their field
• Impact on their profession or society
• Any connection to CUNY, such as:
o Alumni status (degree earned, year of graduation, college)
o Past or current involvement with CUNY programs
o Philanthropic activities benefiting CUNY
o Collaborations with CUNY faculty or research initiatives
o Contributions to CUNY's mission and development
3. The nominee's comprehensive curriculum vitae or biography
4. Any relevant supporting materials that demonstrate the nominee's distinguished contributions
Submission Guidelines
• Nominations must be submitted electronically to Marlyce Gibel at
mgibel901@PROTECTED with the Subject Title “Honorary Degree Nomination – 2025”
• Deadline for submissions: November 18, 2024
• All nominations will be held in strict confidence
• Incomplete nominations will not be considered
Selection Process
The Faculty Caucus will review all nominations and make recommendations to the CollegePresident. Final selections will be based on the nominee's:
• Distinction in their field
• Alignment with College and University values
• Potential to inspire our academic community
• Overall impact and contributions
The College President will then make final recommendations to be approved by the Board of Trustees Committee on Education Policy and then by the full Board of Trustees.
Contact Information
For questions or additional information, please contact:
Derrick Brazill, PhD
Email: dbrazill@PROTECTED
Phone: 718-262-5159
The College is committed to recognizing exceptional individuals who embody our highest ideals and aspirations. We look forward to receiving your thoughtful nominations.
Sincerely,
Provost Brazill