William & Mary’s Charter Day: Are Honorary Degrees Meaningful?

On February 6, 2026, the College of William and Mary awarded honorary degrees to Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger and filmmaker Ken Burns. While the event brought notable figures to campus, questions are being raised about the value and purpose of these distinctions, and the broader event of Charter Day itself.

The Question of Value

The practice of awarding honorary degrees is being scrutinized as largely ceremonial. The College’s website defines recipients as “distinguished individuals,” a description some find insufficiently specific. A review of the list of past recipients reveals a diverse range of professions – from football players to chefs – receiving the same honour, potentially diminishing its significance.

Did You Know? Governor Spanberger previously attended the College of William and Mary before transferring to the University of Virginia.

Differing Achievements, Same Award

This year’s recipients, Governor Spanberger – the first female governor of Virginia – and filmmaker Ken Burns, represent vastly different fields and legacies. Awarding them the same degree, it is argued, fails to adequately recognise their unique contributions. Some suggest tailored awards, or a dedicated “Charter Day award,” could be more appropriate.

The Core of a Degree

The core concept of a degree – earned through years of academic study – is also being questioned in the context of honorary awards. Many recipients already hold degrees from other institutions, rendering a ceremonial degree from William and Mary potentially superfluous. The argument is made that an honorary degree lacks the inherent value of one achieved through academic effort.

Charter Day Under Scrutiny

Beyond the honorary degrees, Charter Day itself is facing criticism for being overly ceremonial and potentially focused on appearances. The event, commemorating the College’s royal charter, is described as a mix of tradition, administrative self-promotion, and fundraising efforts.

Expert Insight: The debate surrounding honorary degrees highlights a common tension between tradition and demonstrable value. Institutions often rely on ceremonial practices to reinforce their history and attract prominent figures, but these practices must continually justify their relevance in a modern context.

A potential shift in focus could involve more targeted awards recognizing specific achievements, increased engagement with the College community, and a greater celebration of the contributions of faculty, students, and support staff.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Charter Day?

Charter Day is the anniversary of the College of William and Mary being given its royal charter, referred to on the College webpage as the College’s birthday.

What is the stated criteria for receiving an honorary degree?

According to the College’s website, honorary degrees are given to “distinguished individuals.”

What is suggested as an alternative to honorary degrees?

The source suggests tailored awards recognizing specific achievements, or a dedicated “Charter Day award” to attract speakers.

As the College of William and Mary continues its 330-year tradition, how might it balance the value of ceremony with the need for demonstrable purpose and enrichment?