Congressman John Dingell and United Auto Workers President Ron Gettelfinger received honorary doctorates of law from Wayne State during the fall commencement held Saturday, Dec. 12 at the Matthaei Athletics Center.
President Jay Noren said that he and the Board of Governors were proud to honor both men.
Noren acclaimed Dingell for his “champion work on healthcare” and Gettelfinger for his stance on fair trade.
“I deeply admire the university’s commitment to diversity,” Dingell said.
He told the graduates that he was proud of the work that they had done and contributions they had made so far. Dingell then thanked his wife Debbie, a member of the Board of Governors, for her support and described her has his best friend.
“The UAW and Wayne State University have a very special relationship,” Gettelfinger said pointing out the upcoming 35th anniversary of the Walter Reuther Library — named after the famed union leader.
Gettelfinger also thanked the members of the UAW.
“It is on their behalf that I accept this honor,” he said.
Then Gettelfinger turned the focus of his speech to the graduates.
“Our country faces many challenges,” he said. “You can be part of the solution.”
During their acceptance speeches, both recipients had plenty of good words for each other.
“This is made even more special by being in the presence of the Dean of the U.S. House of Representatives,” Gettelfinger said calling the congressman a “true patriot.”
Dingell described Gettelfinger as “skilled, honorable, courageous and wise.”
Dingell was first elected to congress in 1955 at the age of 29 after his father, John Dingell Sr. died. He is currently the longest serving representative in House history. He is known for his work with healthcare and the environment, including the 1990 Clean Air Act.
Gettelfinger was elected president of the UAW in 2002 and again in 2006. He will retire at the end of this year and will most likely be replaced by Vice President Bob King after next week’s election.
Graduate Shardae Baskin was the student commencement speaker. She received a bachelor’s degree in social work.
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