4.66 POSTHUMOUS DEGREE

Effective: August 15, 2024

Purpose: To establish a process for awarding posthumous degrees to students who pass away while actively pursuing their education at Emporia State University.

Scope: This policy applies to all University students campus wide.

Responsible Office: Academic Affairs

Policy Statement: If a student passes away while actively pursuing a degree at the University, they may be eligible for a posthumous degree. Nominations for such an award can be submitted by faculty, staff, or family members to the Vice President for Academic Affairs or the University Registrar no later than the end of the subsequent semester for students who pass away during their final semester at the University. The following criteria must be met for consideration:

• The student must have completed an Application for Degree.
• The student must have been enrolled in their final semester, in a paid status, and would have fulfilled the degree requirements upon successful completion of their final enrollment.
• The student must have been in good academic standing.
• The student must have had no outstanding obligations to the University.

If approved, the transcript and diploma will indicate that it is a posthumous degree, and the degree(s) will be conferred during a dedicated segment of the graduation ceremony. The term "posthumously" will be printed directly beneath the degree designation.

Definitions: All words and phrases shall be interpreted utilizing their plain meanings unless otherwise defined in another University or Board of Regents policy or by statute or regulation.

Procedures: All procedures linked and related to the policies above shall have the full force and effect of policy if said procedures have first been properly approved by the University’s administrator in charge of Academic Affairs.

[Academic Affairs procedures - coming soon]

Related Policy Information: [coming soon]