SHU Honors Thomas Melady with Posthumous Honorary Degree

FAIRFIELD, Conn. – Sacred Heart University's President Emeritus Thomas Patrick Melady was honored with a posthumous honorary doctorate during a memorial service on Wednesday, January 29, in the University's Chapel of the Holy Spirit.

Melady served as president of Sacred Heart from 1976-1985—a time when the University was moving from a local commuter school to a regionally recognized University. He was an American ambassador under three presidents and as a sub-cabinet officer for a fourth and remained active in foreign affairs and international relations throughout his career. From 2002 until his death, he was senior diplomat in residence at The Institute of World Politics in Washington, D.C.

Melady was the author of 16 books and hundreds of articles. He was the recipient of honorary doctorates from 30 universities and had been honored by six countries.

The citation was read by SHU Trustee Brian Hamilton '87, who was mentored by Melady during his time as a student at Sacred Heart.

In conferring the Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, Sacred Heart President John J. Petillo talked about Melady's vision and commitment during his 10 years leading SHU. "We honor his service and dedication to his country, his scholarly publications, his years of dedicated teaching and positive impact on all whose lives he touched. Sacred Heart University brings great honor to itself today by honoring Thomas Patrick Melady," Petillo said.

The hood was presented to the Melady family by SHU Trustee Lois Schine.

PHOTO CAPTION: The Sacred Heart University community honored President Emeritus Thomas Melady posthumously on January 29 during a special memorial mass in the Chapel of the Holy Spirit. From left are President John J. Petillo, Monica Melady Micklos and Margaret Melady. Photo by Tracy Deer-Mirek