John DiBiaggio

Tufts President Lawrence S. Bacow awarded John DiBiaggio an honorary degree
during the University's 2002 Commencement ceremonies on Sunday, May 20, 2002

Medford/Somerville, Mass. [05.20.02] -- John DiBiaggio, eleventh President of Tufts University and nationally acclaimed leader in American higher education, today your Tufts family embraces you with admiration, affection, and genuine appreciation. Your leadership of this institution from 1992 to 2001 was exemplary.

   All around us we see the consequences of your leadership: a diverse student body and thriving enrollment; outstanding faculty supported by a much stronger endowment; innovative educational programs; new and improved facilities; and the first of its kind University College of Citizenship and Public Service, a reflection of your life-long passion for active citizenship and community engagement.

   But perhaps your most precious legacy is the bond of community that you have inspired across Tufts' four campuses. Your warmth and compassion for the people of this great university will be remembered as a hallmark of your presidency, as will your commitment to making the world a better place, through your own noteworthy activities and your heartfelt mentoring of others.

   In recognition of your superb stewardship of Tufts University, it is my privilege to present to you today the degree of Doctor of Laws, Honoris Causa.