As I finished my first commencement speech, I was completely unaware of what about to take place next. It was quite a humbling experience being on stage with Texas Tech Chancellor Hance, Regent Miller and President Whitmore receiving my Honorary Doctorate degree. This is even more meaningful because Texas Tech does not give out this honor too often, not even to some of the biggest names who have given the commencement speeches before me at this University.
The most special part to me is Texas Tech recognizes the importance of Academic Excellence Through Chess and this will open the doors for countless students in the future. I view that this honor is not just for me. It is for the entire chess community and I am very excited about the future of chess and education and college chess.
That’s pretty cool, what is your education level Susan? I don’t think I’ve ever read. I hope someday I can get my doctorate.
Congratulations!
lsur
Congratulations Susan, or should I say Dr. Polgar! Is this your first honorary doctorate?
Being a professor myself, I can say that it is a true honor for one to receive an Honorary Doctorate. Universities and colleges only bestow them upon those (such as GM Polgar) who have contributed much to society.
I truly believe she deserves this honor. There is no one in the area of chess that does so much to help others and consistently show such persistence and dedication. Her hard work has and will pay off even more with the myriad of research projects that can arise with SPICE.
I think this is a great opportunity to advance the scientific study of chess in such areas as psychology, sociology, cognitive neuroscience, psychiatry, artificial intelligence, etc. It is unparalleled in the country. And I don’t think it could have been possible without GM Polgar.
I know you receive many “thank you” notes but I want to add my sincere “Thanks” for your hard work . Best of luck and when your team is elected to the USCF Board, chess will be all the better.
Congratulations Dr. Susan
from Dr. P. J
An important day for chess in the US.
A validation for your hard work
, Susan
well done!
What a great move made by Texas Tech! They now have the mind share and brain drain of smart kids who play chess.