Tennessee native Dolly Parton will be recognized by UT for outstanding achievements in entertainment and philanthropy by being awarded only the second honorary doctoral degree in the university's history.

Along with her success in music and film, Parton has worked tirelessly as a cultural ambassador to promote literacy and eduaction for children. She founded the Imagination Library in Sevier County in 1996, and the program is now present all over the country as well as in Great Britain and Canada.

This is a win-win situation because we are honoring someone who is very worthy of an honorary degree while gaining publicity for the university.
Bruce Bursten

Parton was nominated for this honor by students in the school of music. Bruce Bursten, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, said he thinks it is fitting the effort to award Parton this degree started in the school of music because Parton is such a musical success.

Bursten said this award is just as much of an honor to UT as it is to Parton.

"This is a win-win situation because we are honoring someone who is very worthy of an honorary degree while gaining publicity for the university," Bursten said.

Bursten also said it is surprising that a flagship university such as UT does not have a stronger program for honorary degrees, but it is an honor to UT to award Parton this degree.

Pending approval of the Faculty Senate, Parton will be awarded an honorary doctor of humane and musical letters degree on May 9 at Thompson-Boling Arena at the College of Arts and Sciences commencement.