As the University of Michigan gears up for its 2025 Winter Commencement, it celebrates individuals who have made significant impacts across various sectors. From civil rights and politics to biomedical engineering and music, the nominees for honorary degrees showcase the broad spectrum of human achievement.
Slated to speak at the Dec. 14 ceremony at the Crisler Center is Fred Upton, a former U.S. Representative and U-M alumnus. Upton, who has been recommended for an honorary Doctor of Laws, will headline the event. Joining him in receiving honorary degrees are three other distinguished figures:
- Diane Judith Nash, a noted civil rights activist, is recommended for a Doctor of Humane Letters.
- Robert Langer, an eminent biotechnologist and inventor, is nominated for a Doctor of Engineering.
- Don Was, a celebrated musician and producer, is suggested for a Doctor of Music.
These nominations await approval by the Board of Regents at their meeting on Nov. 20.
Fred Upton
Fred Upton, known for his extensive public service and bipartisan approach, epitomizes civic duty. Born in St. Joseph, Michigan, in 1953, Upton was raised in a U-M family and graduated with a journalism degree in 1975. His early career as a congressional aide and White House budget analyst paved the way for his election to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1986. Over 18 terms, he chaired the House Energy and Commerce Committee, shaping policies on health care, energy, and telecommunications.
Nominate an honorary degree recipient
The U-M community is encouraged to propose candidates for future honorary degrees. Nominees should have notable contributions to their field or society. Submit nominations here.
The committee, led by Rackham Graduate School Dean Michael J. Solomon, includes faculty, students, and alumni from U-M’s campuses. Past honorees include Wynton Marsalis, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, and Derek Jeter.
Upton’s legislative influence includes the landmark 21st Century Cures Act, funding NIH and streamlining drug approvals. His collaboration on the Cures 2.0 framework furthered the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health. Engaging with U-M students, Upton exemplifies civility and dialogue, aligning with the university’s mission.
Diane Judith Nash
Diane Nash has left an indelible mark on the American Civil Rights Movement. Born in Chicago in 1938, Nash was inspired by nonviolence workshops to challenge segregation. She emerged as a leader in the Nashville sit-in movement and co-founded the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee. Nash’s role in the Freedom Rides and the Selma marches was pivotal, contributing to the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
Her commitment to justice earned her numerous accolades, such as the Rosa Parks Award and the LBJ Leadership in Civil Rights Award. Nash’s legacy as an advocate for nonviolence continues to inspire youth leadership today.
Robert Samuel Langer Jr.
Renowned for his groundbreaking work in biomedical engineering, Robert Langer’s contributions span biomaterials and polymer science. Born in Albany, New York, Langer holds degrees from Cornell and MIT. His work has revolutionized drug delivery systems and tissue engineering, impacting treatments for cancer and neurological disorders.
At MIT, Langer has published over 1,600 articles and holds nearly 1,500 patents. Recognized with major awards like the Draper Prize and the Kyoto Prize, he is celebrated for his pioneering research and mentorship, demonstrated by his 44 honorary doctorates.
Don Was
Don Was, a visionary in the music industry, has shaped American music through his innovative production. Raised in Detroit, Was co-founded the band Was (Not Was), known for hits like “Walk the Dinosaur.” As a producer, his work with Bonnie Raitt and the Rolling Stones highlights his influence on music’s evolution.
As president of Blue Note Records since 2012, Was has championed musical authenticity. His collaborations with artists like Bob Dylan and Elton John affirm his role as a key figure in music production, inspiring generations through his dedication to artistic integrity.
