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Mikaela Shiffrin Honored with Doctorate from Dartmouth
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Dartmouth College awarded alpine skiing champion Mikaela Shiffrin an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree during its 2025 commencement ceremony, recognizing her unparalleled athletic achievements and advocacy for mental health awareness. The ceremony took place Sunday morning, with actress Sandra Oh also receiving an honorary degree and delivering the commencement address.
A Champion Honored Beyond the Slopes
Shiffrin, the most decorated alpine skier in World Cup history, was recognized not only for her athletic prowess but also for her resilience and vulnerability in the face of challenges. Dartmouth president Sian Beilock highlighted Shiffrin’s impact on encouraging conversations about mental health among young people worldwide.
Did You Know? โฆ
Mikaela Shiffrin holds the record for the most world Cup wins of any alpine ski racer, with 97 victories as of January 2024 [FIS-Ski.com].
A Family Connection to Dartmouth
The honorary degree also carries a personal significance for Shiffrin, as her late father, Jeff Shiffrin, was a Dartmouth College alumnus and a member of the school’s ski team. President Beilock noted that Shiffrin’s connection to the Upper Valley began at a young age, honing her skills at the Dartmouth Skiway.
Commencement Highlights
the commencement ceremony featured Sandra Oh as the commencement speaker,who also received an honorary degree. The event celebrated the graduating class of 2025 and recognized the achievements of both Oh and Shiffrin in their respective fields.
Pro Tip: โฆ
Honorary degrees are often awarded to individuals who have made notable contributions to the arts, sciences, humanities, or public service. They represent a university’s recognition of extraordinary achievement and dedication.
Shiffrin’s Reflection
In an Instagram post, Shiffrin dedicated the honor to her father, who passed away in 2020, expressing gratitude for feeling closer to him during the event. She humorously noted the addition of another “Dr. Shiffrin” to the family, contrasting her path with her father’s academic journey.
Key Facts: Mikaela Shiffrin’s Accomplishments
| Achievement | Details |
|---|---|
| World Cup Wins | Holds the record for most World Cup wins (97 as of January 2024) |
| Olympic Medals | Two Olympic gold medals |
| Honorary Degree | Doctor of humane Letters from Dartmouth College (2025) |
| Mental Health Advocacy | recognized for promoting conversations about mental health |
The Significance of Honorary Degrees
Honorary degrees represent a university’s highest form of recognition, bestowed upon individuals who have demonstrated exceptional achievement and made significant contributions to society. These degrees are not earned through customary academic study but rather awarded to honor individuals whose work aligns with the university’s values and mission.
The practice of awarding honorary degrees dates back centuries, with universities using them to recognize scholars, artists, political leaders, and philanthropists. These awards serve to inspire current students and faculty, highlighting the potential for individuals to make a lasting impact on the world.
Frequently Asked questions
Why did dartmouth College award Mikaela Shiffrin an honorary degree?
Dartmouth College recognized Mikaela Shiffrin for her athletic achievements, including holding the record for the most World Cup wins in alpine skiing, and for her advocacy for mental health awareness.
What is an honorary degree?
An honorary degree is awarded by a university