Has Any US President Had an Honorary Degree Revoked? A Closer Look at Obama and Trump

In the realm of academic achievements, the rare act of revoking an honorary degree carries significant weight. The idea that a US President could have such an honor stripped away is particularly intriguing. While not unprecedented, this scenario remains rare, with notable instances involving former President Barack Obama and recent President Donald Trump. This article explores these cases and other historical precedents, offering insights into why such actions are taken and their implications.

The Case of Barack Obama

One of the most notable cases involved former President Barack Obama. Despite receiving numerous honorary degrees during his presidency, there was a particular incident that garnered significant attention. In 2010, Arizona State University (ASU) had planned to award Obama an honorary doctorate as part of their graduation ceremony. However, their strategic communications team recalled the offer, preventing the formal awarding of the degree. This decision was made due to the political tensions at the time, rather than a revocation. The incident sparked considerable debate and discussion, highlighting the complex relationship between politics and academia.

Political Tensions and Public Relations

The decision to recall the offer in 2010 was not a revocation but rather a strategic move by ASU to avoid potential controversy. The university's communications team was wary of the political landscape, especially during a time of increasing tension between universities and the federal government. This episode underscores the delicate balance between public relations and academic integrity, demonstrating how institutions must navigate sensitive political environments.

Donald Trump: The Controversial Presidency

In the case of President Donald Trump, there was a suggestion that his honorary degree might be revoked, though it never officially happened. This sentiment was primarily expressed by the staff at Lehigh University, where former members of Trump’s staff proposed that the honorary degree be removed. However, the university ultimately decided against taking such an action, indicating that honors previously bestowed by the university are not subject to alteration once awarded.

Legal and Academic Considerations

Lehigh University's decision to reject calls for revocation highlights the institutional integrity of awarding bodies. Once a degree is granted, it is typically not subject to revocation unless there are significant legal or ethical violations. The university's stance aligns with broader academic principles, emphasizing the permanence and irrevocability of degrees awarded.

Historical Precedents and Context

Historically, the revocation of honorary degrees is an unusual event, often reserved for severe and undeniable violations of the values or principles that the institution represents. For example, Anne Harrington, a former Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) professor who resigned after publicly criticizing her colleagues for failing to address sexual-harassment complaints, had her honorary degree revoked while still a professor. This case underscores the importance of maintaining academic standards.

Implications for Academic Integrity and Public Perception

The decision to revoke honorary degrees, even in the case of former presidents, has profound implications for academic integrity and public perception. When an institution echoes this decision, it reinforces the notion that academic awards are not mere formalities but carry significant weight. Such actions also demonstrate the university's commitment to upholding the values and principles it represents.

Conclusion

While the situations involving Barack Obama and Donald Trump highlight the potential for controversy when it comes to honorary degrees, it is important to note that such revocations remain the exception rather than the rule. The actions of institutions such as Arizona State and Lehigh University underscore the importance of strategic communication and institutional integrity. Moving forward, it is critical for universities to navigate the complex interplay between political pressures and academic standards, ensuring that their actions align with both their mission and values.

In summary, while the revocation of honorary degrees is a significant and rare occurrence, it remains a crucial aspect of academic integrity and public perception. The cases of Obama and Trump provide valuable insights into the delicate balance universities must strike in such complex situations.