2012 Honorary Degree Recipient

Pete Williams

Doctor of Letters (Litt.D.)

 

A fierce defender of the First Amendment with a reputation for being tough, fair, and courageous, Pete Williams is one of the most widely known and trusted journalists in America.

A proud graduate of Natrona County High School, Williams earned his bachelor's degree from Stanford University in 1974 and returned to Wyoming to become a reporter and then news director at KTWO Radio and Television in Casper.   Thus began the career of a man whose name has been synonymous with the reporting of some of the most difficult and complicated justice and national security issues facing America in the past 25 years.  Williams left Wyoming to join the fourth estate in Washington D.C. as press secretary for former U.S. Congressman Dick Cheney, eventually being named Assistant Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs at the Pentagon.  As chief Pentagon spokesperson during the Persian Gulf War and military operations in Somalia, Williams was recognized for his efforts to build positive relationships between reengage the media and government during turbulent times.  Today, he is the chief justice correspondent for NBC News, where he continues to take difficult and complex stories and make them understandable and compelling for news audiences worldwide.  Honored by his profession with much recognition, including three Emmy nominations and the prestigious Edward R. Murrow Award, Williams' accomplishments have earned him widespread respect for his sound judgment, fair mindedness, impeccable ethics, and dedication to service.

For all of your contributions, Pete Williams, the University of Wyoming is honored to bestow upon you the degree of Doctor of Letters, honoris causa.