SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 6910
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in
their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a
statement of legislative intent.
As Reported By Senate Committee On:
Higher Education, February 06, 2008
Title: An act relating to honorary doctoral degrees.
Brief Description: Authorizing Western Washington University to confer honorary doctoral degrees.
Sponsors: Senators Shin, Brandland, Berkey, Delvin, Hobbs, Schoesler, Kilmer, Spanel and Sheldon.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Higher Education: 2/6/08 [DPS]
SENATE COMMITTEE ON HIGHER EDUCATION
Majority Report: That Substitute Senate Bill No. 6910 be substituted therefor, and the substitute bill do pass.Signed by Senators Shin, Chair; Kilmer, Vice Chair; Delvin, Ranking Minority Member; Berkey, Schoesler and Sheldon.
Staff: Aldo Melchiori (786-7439)
Background: Central Washington University, Eastern Washington University, Western Washington University, and The Evergreen State College are authorized to confer honorary bachelor's and master's degrees, upon persons other than graduates of their universities, in recognition of the person's learning or devotion to education, literature, art, or science. Washington State University and the University of Washington may also confer honorary degrees without restriction as to level. Community and technical colleges are authorized to confer honorary associate of arts degrees.
Summary of Bill (Recommended Substitute): Western Washington University, Central Washington University, and Eastern Washington University are authorized to confer honorary doctoral degrees, upon persons other than graduates, in recognition of the person's learning or devotion to education, literature, art, or science.
EFFECT OF CHANGES MADE BY HIGHER EDUCATION COMMITTEE (Recommended Substitute): Central Washington University and Eastern Washington University are also allowed to confer honorary doctorate degrees.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony on Original Bill: PRO: This is an innovative idea to honor people who contribute to education. The faculty Senate endorses the effort. It will help the college bring outstanding achievers to campus to interact with students.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Senator Shin, prime sponsor; Sheral Burkey, Western Washington University.