Honorary Degree Recognizes Community Leader’s Lifetime of Service
The awarding of an honorary degree is a distinction reserved for those whose life’s work has made the world better. That’s why it is my privilege to celebrate the leadership and service of Robert J. Booker, a Knoxville native and Tennessee’s first Black state representative, with an honorary doctorate in humanities from the College of Arts and Sciences.
While visiting with Mr. Booker recently, he told me how meaningful this honor is to him and how he hopes others—especially our graduates—understand the value of engaging in your community and learning from others. Booker has dedicated his life to service—in the military, in public office, and in the Knoxville community that he loves so deeply.
After graduating from Knoxville College in 1962, Booker spent three years in the US Army serving in England and France. When he returned home, he joined the Civil Rights movement, demonstrating leadership and courage advocating for equal rights in Knoxville. In 1966 he was elected Tennessee’s first Black state representative, championing issues important to our community. After his time in the legislature, Booker served on countless boards, councils, and commissions dedicated to furthering change, exemplifying what it means to be a Volunteer.
His commitment to preserving our history and delivering insightful reflections on our past have provided generations of Knoxvillians and Tennesseans with a deeper understanding of our community and ourselves. He wrote a regular column in the Knoxville News Sentinel, in which he explored our community’s history and the ways it intersects with our present and future.
His lifetime of work and service inspires all of us to create a brighter future together.
Booker’s passion and accomplishments are a reminder to all of us of what it means to live a life of leadership and service. I am proud to have him as a cherished member of our community. It is a privilege to honor his life’s work with this distinction.
