Ex-Saints coach to address Loyola grads, get honorary degree

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Retired New Orleans Saints coach Sean Payton will be the speaker at Loyola University’s spring commencement ceremonies.

Payton also will receive an honorary doctor of letters degree at the May 14 ceremonies, the university said in a Friday news release.

Loyola’s announcement adds that others receiving honorary degrees will include musician George Porter, Jr.; Holocaust survivor Anne Levy; and New Orleans health director Dr. Jennifer Avegno, who became the face of the city’s efforts to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Rev. Gregory Boyle will receive an honorary degree in recognition of his work with former gang leaders.

The Loyola law school’s speaker will be retired Judge Calvin Johnson, the first Black person elected to serve on the state bench in Orleans Parish.

Payton left the Saints after compiling a 152-89 regular-season record — and nine playoff appearances — in 15 seasons. He coached the club to its only Super Bowl championship.