Honorary Degrees
Honorary degrees at VCFA are awarded for the purpose of formally recognizing and honoring living, distinguished artists, arts educators, and patrons of the arts, as well as exemplary service to the college.
Through the awarding of honorary degrees, VCFA seeks to recognize those who have made profound and enduring contributions to the arts, scholarship, and culture, and whose work, character, and contributions to the arts reflect our values as an institution.
Guidelines & Procedures
Learn more about our criteria and guidelines for granting honorary degrees, and view our nomination form.
Our Newest Honoree
Read more about award-winning, musician, performer, and activist JJJJJerome Ellis, the newest recipient of an honorary degree from VCFA.
Honorary Degree Recipients
| RECIPIENT | DEGREE | DATE |
| Naomi Shihab Nye | Doctor of Human Letters | July 2023 |
| Cheryl D. Miller | Doctor of Humane Letters | February 2021 |
| Cornelius “Con” Hogan | Doctor of Humane Letters | February 2018 |
| Faith Wilding | Doctor of Humane Letters | July 2018 |
| Louise Harwood Crowley | Doctor of Humane Letters | July 2016 |
| Katherine Paterson | Doctor of Letters | January 2015 |
| Jean Valentine | Doctor of Letters | July 2013 |
| Marion Dane Bauer | Honorary MFA in Writing | July 2012 |
| Gary Moore | Honorary MFA in Writing | January 2012 |