Three people will be honored with honorary degrees at the upcoming SIU graduation ceremonies in the Spring.

The first of which is former Governor Jim Edgar. Edgar will be awarded the Honorary Doctor of Humane Arts Degree. University officials say Edgar is being honored for his willingness to make difficult decisions, and overcoming obstacles during his time as Governor.

Dixie Fortis will be posthumously awarded the Honorary Doctor of Commerce Degree. Fortis graduated from SIU in 1955, and went onto a successful advertising career, winning several CLIO awards. Fortis directed many national campaigns for popular brands.

The third honorary degree goes to Bill Norwood. Norwood graduated from SIU in 1959 and was SIU’s first African-American Quarterback and the first African-American Pilot for United Airlines. Norwood also served on the SIU Board of Trustees for 27 years, from 1974 to 2001.