On May 18, a distinguished moment in academic history unfolded as Professor Wang Canfa from the China University of Political Science and Law (CUPL) was bestowed with an honorary Doctor of Laws degree by Vermont Law and Graduate School (VLGS). The accolade was presented during the school's commencement ceremony, held in the picturesque setting of South Royalton town square.
(Prof. Wang receiving the honorary Doctor of Laws degree from VLGS)
Founded in 1972, VLGS is renowned for its preeminence in environmental law, consistently leading the field among U.S. law schools. Prof. Wang Canfa is the inaugural international recipient of an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from VLGS, a testament to his exceptional contributions to the field.
In his announcement of the award, VLGS President Rodney A. Smolla extolled Professor Wang's illustrious 40-year career in environmental law. Smolla lauded Wang's unwavering dedication to enhancing environmental legal frameworks in China, promoting international collaboration, and nurturing a new generation of environmental law experts. His global influence as a scholar in environmental law was underscored as a significant factor in this recognition.
(Prof. Wang receiving the honorary Doctor of Laws degree from VLGS)
The day before the commencement, Prof. Wang Canfa delivered an academic lecture to the VLGS faculty and students as part of the graduation season. In a gesture of respect and to celebrate his acceptance of the honorary degree, the Chinese national flag was hoisted on the VLGS campus—a first in the school's history.
(The Chinese national flag raised on the VLGS campus)
Prof. Wang is the third CUPL law scholar to receive an honorary degree from a foreign university, following Jiang Ping and Huang Jin, who were awarded honorary degrees in Belgium and Canada, respectively. These honorary degrees not only celebrate the individual scholarly and societal contributions of these scholars but also highlight CUPL's expanding global presence and influence in the academic community.
