Merle Haggard, Buck Owens honoured at Cal State Bakersfield commencement

CP23819028
Dr. Merle Haggard, right, shares a laugh with fellow doctor, and California State University Trustee, Douglas Faigin at California State University, Bakersfield on Friday June 14, 2013. (AP photo/The Bakersfield Californian, Felix Adamo)

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. – They call him “The Hag,” but now Merle Haggard can answer to “doctor” as well.

Haggard was presented an honorary doctorate Friday by California State University, Bakersfield.

The doctor of fine arts honour was conferred during School of Arts & Humanities commencement ceremonies that also celebrated the late Buck Owens.

The university does not bestow honorary doctorates posthumously, so Owens was instead awarded the President’s Medal.

The music of Haggard and Owens exemplifies country music’s “Bakersfield Sound.”

News from © The Associated Press, . All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Join the Conversation!

Want to share your thoughts, add context, or connect with others in your community?

Create a free account

The Associated Press

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world’s population sees AP journalism every day.

Related Articles