I am stunned to learn that my alma mater is awarding an honorary degree to Phyllis Schlafly.  In light of her narrow focus on issues and processes that are the antithesis of the principles of liberal arts education, it seems very questionable to consider her eligible for this honor.  I am greatly disappointed that a higher education institution with the reputation that Washington University enjoys would move in this direction.  As a member of the 1958 50th Reunion class, I was considering attending the ceremony, but with the honoring of Mrs. Schlafly, attending this ceremony is not  something that I can do.  I was there when she was attacking the ERA and women’s rights, often with meanness and smugness that rejected all other viewpoints. I am still a witness as she continues her attack “crusade” which now includes among its targets the concept of global warming.  My heart is heavy as I am moved to raise questions concerning the process of how these honorary degree decisions are made and by whom.  As I study the list of the Board of Trustees, I can not imagine how they came to a unanimous decision regarding Mrs. Schlafly.  I think that the awarding of an honorary degree has to be seen by the public as an endorsement of the “accomplishments” of the individual.  Mrs. Schlafly has a right to her opinions, but Washington University has the right and the obligation to carefully consider whom they decide to honor.  It is unfortunate that the class of 2008 and the 50th reunion class of 1958 have to endure the pain of this situation when it could have been thoughtfully avoided if the University had upheld the principles of fairness and objective investigation that I was taught while there as an undergraduate.

Mary Hodge Brauninger

Creve Coeur