Brown University awards honorary doctorates to eight distinguished leaders

Brown University honored eight distinguished individuals with honorary doctorates at its 256th Commencement on Sunday, May 26. The recipients included Tom Geismar, a graphic design pioneer; Claudia Goldin, a Nobel Laureate and economist; Perry Kasper Granoff, a community leader and champion of the arts; Joy Harjo, the twenty-third U.S. poet laureate; Pedro Noguera, a scholar of education and equity; Sarah Ruhl, a playwright and poet; and Jerome C. Vascellaro and Mary Elizabeth Vascellaro, business and community leaders.

Geismar, known for creating iconic logos, was honored for his contributions to design. Goldin, a trailblazer in economics, was recognized for her groundbreaking research on women’s progress. Granoff, a patron of the arts, was praised for his advocacy for arts education. Harjo, the first Native American U.S. poet laureate, was celebrated for her literary achievements. Noguera, a sociologist, was commended for his work in public education equity. Ruhl, an acclaimed playwright, was honored for her impactful works. The Vascellaros were recognized for their dedication to education and community building.

The honorary degrees were conferred by University President Christina H. Paxson during the Commencement exercises. Each recipient was presented with a citation highlighting their achievements and contributions to their respective fields. The ceremony also paid tribute to artist William Kentridge, who was unable to attend due to illness. Brown University expressed hope to honor him on another occasion.