University of Northern Colorado Policy on Posthumous Degrees
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The University of Northern Colorado recognizes the profound loss experienced when a student passes away while actively pursuing their education. In acknowledgment of their dedication and progress, UNC has established a formal policy regarding the awarding of posthumous degrees.
Initiating a Request
A request for a posthumous degree can be initiated by several parties, according to university guidelines. These include the decedent’s family, the student’s academic department (school, programme area, or college), or the University President. This ensures a sensitive and multi-faceted approach to considering such requests.
Eligibility Criteria
The Chief Academic Officer (CAO), in consultation with the Dean of Students, carefully evaluates each case. Key considerations include whether the student was making satisfactory academic progress toward degree completion and whether their academic record is free from significant disciplinary actions. This review process aims to honor students who were on track to graduate.
Decision and Notification Process
If the CAO and Dean of Students determine that a posthumous degree is warranted, the Dean of Students will reach out to the decedent’s family to gauge their support for the recognition. With family consent, the CAO will then notify the Registrar’s Office. The Registrar will afterward order the appropriate diploma and arrange for the student’s name to be included in the next available commencement program.
Formal notification of the award is then disseminated to key university officials, including the President, the CAO, the Dean of Students, and the decedent’s academic department.
Presidential Communication
The University President personally extends condolences and announces the posthumous degree to the decedent’s family in a formal letter. This letter also includes the date of the commencement ceremony where the degree will be officially conferred.
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