Commencement is an important part of university life where we celebrate the culmination of hard work and achievement. Commencement awards recognize individuals whose achievements have made significant contributions to the citizens of the State of New Hampshire or society as a whole.
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Criteria
Honorary Degrees
The following criteria are applied:
- Individuals of national and/or international importance whose contributions have enhanced society as a whole, or who have otherwise brought significant enrichment or benefit to particular groups. Consideration is given to individuals who bring honor, prestige, and recognition to the State of New Hampshire (not required for an Honorary Degree).
- Outstanding alumni of the University, whether residing in the state, out of the state, or out of the country.
- Outstanding living benefactors of the University, whether their contributions are in-kind, service, or otherwise.
Granite State Awards
Granite State Awards are conferred by the USNH Board of Trustees to recognize leaders of business, industry, agriculture, trade associations, labor organizations, teachers in high or preparatory schools, professional persons, and citizens who have made outstanding contributions to New Hampshire (i.e., persons of prominence in their own communities who do not easily fit the categories of those eligible for Honorary Degrees, but who merit commendation). Granite State Awards are also conferred upon agencies, corporations, and foundations when they have provided extraordinary services or have otherwise provided great benefit to the state.
