Your browser does not support Javascript, please upgrade your browser to a newer version or enable Javascript.
back

Honorary doctorate presented to former congressman

Bill Thomas

President Horace Mitchell and
former congressman Bill Thomas

President Horace Mitchell presented an honorary doctorate of humane letters to the Honorable William “Bill” Thomas at the School of Humanities and Social Sciences commencement ceremony.

The doctorate was given in recognition of Thomas's sustained and significant contributions to the university, community, state and nation.

Thomas's connection to Bakersfield began more than 40 years ago when he joined the faculty of Bakersfield College as a political science teacher. In 1974 he was elected to the California State Assembly and, four years later, was elected to the United States House of Representatives. As a member of Congress for 28 years, Thomas was responsible for legislative reforms that have impacted the lives of all Americans.

“I am honored and humbled by this recognition,” Thomas said. “It is especially appreciated because it is being given by people at home who have known me for a long time.”

This is the eighth honorary doctorate the university has awarded. Other recipients are veterinarian and legislator Walter Stiern, banker and businessman Ray Dezember, auto dealer Jim Burke, community volunteer Millie Ablin, attorney and community activist Milton M. Younger, attorney and civic leader George Martin, and local realtor Bob Karpe.