Honorary Degree

Ambassador Michael J. Sullivan, Doctor of Laws (LL.D.)

As governor, statesman, and citizen, Michael J. Sullivan has brought distinction to the university, state, and nation that he has served selflessly. A graduate of the University of Wyoming (B.S. '61, J.D. '64), he is recognized as an accomplished trial lawyer with expertise on issues related to arbitration and mediation, natural resources law, and international business development. His commitment to the people of Wyoming and the state he loves led him to embark on a political career that culminated in his election as Governor of Wyoming. During his two terms as Governor, he maintained a balanced budget when the state coffers were empty. During those difficult years he made education and the conservation of natural resources his priorities, because he understood how important both were the future of Wyoming.

The exceptional wisdom and political acumen demonstrated by Sullivan as Wyoming's leader were the foundation for his appointment as the United States Ambassador to Ireland, bridging the administrations of presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush. His natural skills as mediator and facilitator were evident in the pivotal role he played in the United States' support for the implementation of the Good Friday Agreement, a major political development in the Northern Ireland peace process.

Today, Sullivan has returned home to the state he loves. By all he is described as warm and genuine, decent and hard-working, and he continues to serve his alma mater, community, and state with characteristic excellence.

For all of your contributions, Michael J. Sullivan, we are honored to bestow upon you the degree of Doctor of Laws, honoris causa.