Hall of Fame Spurs player George Gervin was awarded an honorary doctorate of education degree from Eastern Michigan University at the school’s most recent commencement ceremonies earlier this week.
Gervin attended Eastern Michigan for two season while heplayed there in 1971-72. He was recognized for his commitment to serving youth in San Antonio through various efforts.
“I am truly humbled and honored to be the recipient of the honorary doctorate of education from my alma mater, Eastern Michigan University,” said Gervin, who was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in May of 1996.
And it sounds like officials at his old school were just as happy for Gervin to be honored.
“It was great to have George Gervin back on Eastern’s campus,” Eastern Michigan University president Susan Martin said. ”His commencement address to students conveyed powerful and important themes about education being a lifelong process, the importance of family, and the value of giving back and volunteering to help your community. We respect the amazing skills he brought to the basketball court here at Eastern and in San Antonio, but even more importantly we admire the efforts of George and his wife, Joyce, to help children and families in San Antonio to better their lives and achieve their dreams.”
It’s a great honor for one of the most iconic players in the Spurs’ rich history.