On Saturday, September 27, New York University president emeritus and former U.S. Representative in Congress John Brademas was awarded his 53rd honorary degree by Westfield State College in Massachusetts, and, in New York City, by St. Johns University, a medal marking the Centennial of its School of Education.
In presenting Dr. Brademas the honorary degree of Doctor of Laws at ceremonies marking the inauguration of Evan S. Dobelle as 19th President of Westfield State College, Dr. Dobelle read the following citation: Throughout two decades in Congress, your commitment to learning and the arts revitalized the cultural life of our nation. As its president, you transformed New York University into a global model for higher education. Integrating the academy, the humanities, and public policy, you personify the creative democratic spirit.
Others receiving honorary degrees were Peter J. Gomes, Minister, Memorial Church, Harvard University; musician Arlo Guthrie; and Massachusetts State Senator Joan M. Menard.
Also on Saturday, in New York City, Brademas, at a dinner marking the 100th anniversary of the School of Education of St. Johns University, received the Schools Centennial Medal.
St. Johns University President Donald J. Harrington described Brademas achievements as a champion of education in Congress and at New York University and said, Tonight it is eminently appropriate to salute a man whose half-century of service has been the catalyst for so much positive change on the national landscape of education.