In what may be the ultimate in bad timing, the University of Southern California last Friday awarded Cardinal Roger Mahony with the degree of Doctor of Humane Letters, honoris causa.
According to an article in USC News last Thursday, honorary degrees are given to: "Elevate the university in the eyes of the world by honoring individuals who are widely known and highly regarded for their achievements." Cardinal Mahony is certainly widely known!
In addition to being "widely known" and "highly regarded" at USC one can be considered for an honorary degree as a result of "exceptional acts of philanthropy to the University." I was told by a member of administration, at USC $1,000,000 is the normal minimum to be seriously considered. Anyone have a price list for other institutions? David L. Boyd
A question out my curiosity: When did the proper form of address become "Cardinal Roger Mahony" (as opposed to "Roger Cardinal Mahony")? Did I miss something along the way? Craig who is merely an interested Protestant
David's question: Anyone have a price list for other institutions? An answer: In 1988, it was only $50,000 for Pepperdine, plus a second honorary for the rascal that introduced the donor. Craig's question: Proper form of address for Mahony? Answer: How about, "Ehhhh, what's up, Doc?"
