Sacramento State and California State University recognized four individuals for their contributions to public service, law, health care, and academia in ceremonies held on April 24 and May 1. The announcement was made on May 4.
The recognition highlights the university’s tradition of honoring those who have served the campus community, the broader California State University system, and society at large. Since 1963, honorary degrees have been awarded by CSU to individuals whose work has benefited humanity as well as local communities.
This year’s honorary degree recipients include Anh Phoong, founder and CEO of Phoong Law, who received an Honorary Doctor of Laws; Garry Maisel, CEO emeritus of Western Health, who was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters; and Elizabeth G. Hill, retired legislative analyst for the state of California, who also received an Honorary Doctor of Laws.
In addition to the honorary degrees, Professor Emeritus Ayad Al-Qazzaz from the Sociology department was presented with the President’s Medal for Distinguished Service. This award is given to community members who have provided outstanding service to Sacramento State, higher education more broadly, or contributed significantly to the common good.
Honorees were recognized during receptions that took place in late April and early May. Further information about this year’s recipients can be found on the university’s Honorary Degrees webpage.
