The University of California does not confer honorary degrees. In 1981, the Berkeley Medal was established as the University’s top honor. It is to be bestowed at most three or four times a year on individuals of exceptionally distinguished achievements whose work or contributions to society illustrate the ideals of the University and contribute to its goals, and whose careers have manifestly benefited the public well beyond the demands of tradition, rank, or direct service to the University. The presentation may not be made in absentia and should occur at a public function of the Berkeley campus.
The Medal is a separate and distinct honor and in rare cases may be bestowed on recipients of the Berkeley Citation. The Medal may be awarded to a notable figure, except those then holding elective public office in California or nonacademic University appointments. Anyone on or off the campus may nominate an individual for the Berkeley Medal, stating the reasons for the nomination. Different aspects of the nominee’s career should be documented by a minimum of three separate letters of recommendation. The nomination is addressed to the Chancellor, who forwards it to his Advisory Committee on Honors. The committee reviews the qualifications of the nominee and forwards its confidential recommendation to the Chancellor, who has the authority to accept or reject the recommendation and to select an appropriate occasion to present the approved award.
View the list of recipients of The Berkeley Medal. (You will need Adobe Acrobat software to view or print the recipient list.)
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