Sept. 28, 2007

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COLLEGE STATION - Dr. Norman E. Borlaug, who is credited for saving more than a billion people worldwide from starvation, will receive an honorary doctor of letters degree from Texas A&M University in December, as approved by the A&M System Board of Regents on Sept 28.

An outstanding scientist and humanitarian, Borlaug received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1970 for his work on wheat improvement and was honored by President George W. Bush and congressional leaders in July 2007 with the Congressional Gold Medal for his efforts at 'bringing radical change to world agriculture and uplifting humanity.'

Borlaug joined the Texas A&M University faculty in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences as distinguished professor of international agriculture in 1984.

"Scientist, teacher, humanitarian, Nobel Laureate and Father of the Green Revolution -- these terms describe Dr. Norman Borlaug," said Dr. Elsa Murano, A&M System vice chancellor and dean of agriculture and life sciences. "However, these words can't begin to capture the magnitude of his accomplishments and impact globally."

Texas A&M policy provides for the issuance of honorary degrees to recognize excellence in public affairs, the sciences, humanities and the arts, scholarship and education, business and philanthropy, and social services which exemplify the mission and scope. Honorary degrees are also awarded to recognize meritorious and outstanding service to the academic institution, Texas, the United States, humanity at large or to recognize persons whose lives serve as examples of the university's aspirations for its students.