While doing an internet search on honorary doctorates, to update that chapter in the new Bears' Guide, I came upon a reference to Bullwinkle the Moose being awarded a doctorate by what CBS called "Whoseamatta U," but I believe the correct school is "Whatsamatta U." Drew Carey, who dropped out of Kent State, was awarded the doctorate by Cleveland State U. He said his "first GPA was .5. I could prove it to you but I haven't paid my money so they won't give me my transcripts." Other wisdom from Dr. Carey: "I got drunk and overslept on the last day you could drop courses without penalty. I got all D's and F. But look at me now. I'm a millionaire." (He went on to say that material goods are not the most important things; stuff like having a beer with friends is more important.) Turns out Dick Enberg, who got an honorary doctorate from Indiana U earned a real one there in 1962 -- another case of a public figure not using an earned doctorate in public. Both Smothers Brothers from their real alma mater, San Jose State. CeCe Williams and Halle Berry from the Gospel Ministry Out Reach Theological Institute, televised live on Black Entertainment Television. Jackie Chan, Baptist University of Hong Kong. (We're halfway through watching Shanghai Noon on video and enjoying it thoroughly. Martial arts meets old west. His character seems to be named Zhong Wein.) The late Billy Barty, a Doctor of Humane Letters from his real alma mater, Cal State Los Angeles.
Fascinating stuff!! Thank you for keeping us abreast of the "Ripley's Believe It or Not" side of education. Now that Drew Carey has raised the academic bar by receiving an honorary doctorate, can Dr. Pauly Shore be far behind? Another burning question that--I am confident--has provoked many sleepless nights: How could Santa Monica College (a California Community College that awards associate degrees) have given alumnus Dustin Hoffman an honorary doctorate? Tony Pina P.S. I can't wait for the 15th Edition of Bears' Guide!
Well, what do you know! My least significant post thus far has earned me the coveted title of "Senior Member" on Degreeinfo. Tony
Many years ago I went to the Ripley's museum in Florida. Ripley had received an honorary masters and the diploma was on display. After kicking a few memory cells I believe it was from Dartmouth. John
Congratulations, Senior Member Tony. You now walk among an elite group of individuals--each of whom has paid her/his dues. To learn the "DegreeInfo Handshake," which is reserved for senior members only, please contact Dr. John Bear--Grand Potentate of the Silver Diploma.
Hon. gov. candidate Con Hogan who is running for Gov. of Vt. lists his honorary Doct. ahead of his earned credentials. Whatsamatta U. All the best!
Now I'm disillusioned. I thought Bullwinkle's doctorate was EARNED. Nosborne, JD (who still loves Moose and Squirrel, dahlink!)
