Honorary Degrees
Tennessee Tech University awards honorary degrees to recognize individuals who have made exceptional contributions to their profession, society, and the university. These degrees serve to honor outstanding achievements while inspiring our students, faculty, and community to pursue excellence.
An honorary degree is the university’s highest form of recognition, awarded in exceptional circumstances to individuals whose careers demonstrate sustained and superlative achievement in fields such as research, scholarship, public service, leadership, and cultural affairs. Recipients are selected based on their alignment with Tennessee Tech’s values and their ability to inspire future generations.
Per Policy 268, Tennessee Tech awards no more than two honorary degrees per year to uphold the prestige of this honor. Current faculty, staff, and trustees are not eligible unless they have been separated from the university for at least three years. Similarly, currently elected or appointed public officials within the State of Tennessee and candidates for public office are not eligible.
Notable Recipients
Barry Wilmore
Honorary Doctorate of Engineering (2012)
A Tennessee Tech graduate, Barry “Butch” Wilmore is a NASA astronaut, U.S. Navy captain, and Tennessee Tech Board of Trustees member. He has completed multiple space missions, including commanding the International Space Station, and exemplifies leadership in engineering, science and service. His achievements in aeronautics, engineering and leadership have made him a distinguished figure in spaceflight, and he continues to inspire the Tennessee Tech community with his contributions to science and innovation.
Millard Oakley
Honorary Doctorate of Agriculture (2021)
A prominent attorney, businessman, and civic leader, Millard Oakley dedicated his career to public service and education. He served as Tennessee’s Constitutional Convention Delegate and as General Counsel for the U.S. House of Representatives’ Education and Labor Committee. A longtime supporter of Tennessee Tech, he played a vital role in the university’s growth, including the establishment of the Millard Oakley STEM Center, which provides hands-on educational opportunities for students and teachers across the region, as well as Oakley Hall, J.J. Oakley Health Services and Oakley Farm. His lifelong commitment to education and public service reflects the values Tennessee Tech seeks to inspire in its students.
Harry Stonecipher
Honorary Doctorate of Engineering (2021)
A Tennessee Tech alumnus, Harry Stonecipher is a renowned aerospace executive who played a crucial role in shaping the modern aviation industry. He served as President and CEO of The Boeing Company, leading the company through a period of significant growth and technological advancement. Before that, he held leadership positions at McDonnell Douglas and General Electric, driving innovation in aerospace engineering. His leadership and strategic vision have left a lasting impact on the industry, and his success exemplifies the excellence Tennessee Tech instills in its graduates.
Nomination Process
Any Tennessee Tech employee may nominate an individual for an honorary degree by submitting a written request to the Executive Officer of the Committee on Commencements, Convocations, and Academic Ceremonies. The nomination must include:
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- A letter from the nominator detailing personal knowledge of the nominee’s accomplishments and reputation.
- A letter of support from a Tennessee Tech Dean, Vice President, or the President.
- A nomination summary (100 words or less) outlining the nominee’s achievements.
- A dossier (maximum 25 pages) providing comprehensive information on the nominee’s education, career, honors, and public service.
- The selection process is conducted by a committee of up to seven members, including
at least four faculty members. Nominations are confidential, and final approval rests
with the Tennessee Tech Board of Trustees.
Awarding of Honorary Degrees
Honorary degrees are conferred at a commencement ceremony, where recipients address graduates and the university community. This recognition not only honors the recipient’s achievements but also strengthens Tennessee Tech’s mission to foster excellence in education, research, and service.
For more information on Tennessee Tech’s honorary degree program or to submit a nomination, please contact academicaffairs@tntech.edu.