Gregoire receives honorary degree

PULLMAN – Washington State University gave Gov. Chris Gregoire an honorary doctoral degree at a graduation ceremony in Pullman on Saturday.

The governor was honored for her work as a champion of education. She also spoke at the first of three commencement ceremonies on the university’s main campus.

WSU President Elson Floyd commended the governor for building one of the best education systems in the world. He said Gregoire understands the connection between academic research and global competitiveness, especially in the areas of aerospace, high tech and biotechnology.

The honorary doctorate given to Gregoire is only the 26th granted by WSU’s board of regents.

In addition to Saturday’s ceremonies in Pullman, commencement ceremonies also are scheduled this month at WSU’s regional campuses in Vancouver, Tri-Cities and Spokane.

WSU officials say a total of 6,574 degrees were awarded by the university on all campuses during the 2011-’12 academic year.