By Patrick S. Tokpah, in Bong County
Cuttington University in Suakoko, Bong County, has conferred an Honorary Doctorate Degree Honoris Causa on former Vice President and Standard Bearer of the Unity Party, Joseph N. Boakai for his humanitarian and development professionalism, especially for his peace-building initiatives that have impacted the country and the world at large. The degree of Doctor of Humane Letters (Latin: Litterarum humanarum doctor; DHumLitt; DHL; or LHD) is usually conferred as an honorary degree to those who have distinguished themselves in various fields of human endeavor.
The Doctorate Degree of Humane Letter (L.H.D) –– is in recognition of former VP Boakai’s accomplishments in many fields including humanity, peace-building and education. The honor was bestowed on the former Liberian Vice President during the 59th Commencement Convocation of the University on Friday, March 12, 2021 in Suakoko, Bong County.
In the citation, Cuttington University underscored the many strides and impacts made over the years on Liberia and on the world stage by former Vice President Boakai. The University stated as reasons for conferring the degree on former Liberian Vice President and Standard Bearer of the Unity Party, citing his “par excellence” activism and humanitarian role over the years in the Country.
‘Your timely intervention in the recent impasse at Cuttington University has proven again that you are indeed a problem-solver, and an expert in conflict resolution. You have committed and continue to commit your personal resources and finances in peace-building initiatives,” the University recounted in the citation read by Prof. Dr. Charles Wesley Ford, Jr., Vice President for Academic Affairs.
“In recognition of these facts, and in appreciation of your selfless services to humanity and the well-being of the people of Liberia, the Board of Trustees and the Faculty Senate of Cuttington University now hereby confer upon you, Your Excellency, Dr. Joseph N. Boakai former Vice President of the Republic of Liberia, the Degree of Doctor of Humane Letters (L.H.D) Honoris Causa, with all the rights and privileges thereto appertaining.”
Dr. Boakai served as the Commencement Speaker for the 59th Commencement Convocation of the undergraduate program at which time over three hundred students received degrees in various fields of studies.