Dartmouth College gives Mikaela Shiffrin an honorary degree

Dartmouth College Awards Mikaela Shiffrin an Honorary Degree

In a celebration of achievement, perseverance, and excellence both on and off the slopes, Dartmouth College has awarded an honorary degree to Olympic champion skier Mikaela Shiffrin. The ceremony, held during the college’s annual commencement, honored Shiffrin not only for her record-shattering skiing career but also for her embodiment of values such as resilience, dedication, and leadership.

Shiffrin, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and the most decorated alpine skier in World Cup history, was met with thunderous applause as she took the stage in Hanover, New Hampshire. Wearing a traditional cap and gown, she smiled humbly while receiving the degree, which recognizes individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to society.

In her acceptance speech, Shiffrin emphasized the importance of persistence in the face of adversity. “Success,” she said, “is not about avoiding failure, but about learning from it. Every fall on the mountain teaches you how to rise stronger.” Her words resonated deeply with graduates, faculty, and families gathered on Dartmouth’s iconic green.

Dartmouth President Sian Leah Beilock praised Shiffrin for representing the best of human potential. “Mikaela has achieved more than many dream possible, and yet she remains grounded, thoughtful, and committed to using her platform for good,” Beilock said. “We are honored to recognize her accomplishments and character.”

Shiffrin’s resume is legendary: over 95 World Cup victories, four overall World Cup titles, and numerous World Championship medals. But the honorary degree recognized more than just her athletic prowess. Dartmouth acknowledged her advocacy for mental health awareness and her efforts to inspire young women in sports.

Born in Vail, Colorado, Shiffrin has been a household name in alpine skiing since her teenage years. Her dominance on the slopes has redefined what is possible in the sport, and she has been credited with bringing new energy and attention to women’s skiing on a global stage.

Despite the spotlight, Shiffrin has been candid about her personal challenges, including the loss of her father in 2020 and the mental strain that followed. Her openness about grief, pressure, and mental wellness has earned her admiration beyond the sports world.

At the ceremony, Shiffrin shared that education was always important in her family. Though she turned professional before pursuing college full-time, she has remained committed to lifelong learning. “I may not have taken the traditional academic path,” she said, “but I’ve learned every day—from my teammates, my coaches, and my life experiences.”

Dartmouth’s honorary degrees are reserved for those whose contributions to society reflect the college’s mission of cultivating leadership, wisdom, and service. Past recipients have included Supreme Court justices, Nobel laureates, and artists. Shiffrin now joins those ranks as a symbol of excellence in a different, yet equally impactful, field.

During her time on campus, Shiffrin met with student-athletes and spoke informally with graduates. She encouraged them to find passion in whatever they pursue. “Whether you’re heading to Wall Street or into a lab or onto a ski slope,” she told them, “bring your full self, work hard, and keep learning.”

The crowd was especially moved when Shiffrin described her own setbacks and comebacks. She reminded graduates that achievement isn’t linear and that setbacks can be powerful fuel for future success. Her authenticity and relatability made a lasting impression.

Faculty members noted how Shiffrin’s story paralleled many of the core values Dartmouth aims to instill. “She exemplifies discipline, courage, and humility,” said Professor Ellen Richardson from the Department of Sociology. “She’s a role model not just for athletes, but for all of us.”

While Shiffrin didn’t attend Dartmouth as a student, she has long admired the college for its blend of academic rigor and outdoor tradition. In a lighthearted moment, she joked, “If I had time between training runs, I would’ve loved hiking the Appalachian Trail with the Dartmouth Outing Club.”

Photos from the event showed Shiffrin beaming beside students and faculty, holding her honorary degree, a Doctor of Humane Letters. Many attendees posted their excitement on social media, calling the event “inspiring” and “unforgettable.”

The ceremony also included honorary degrees for other notable figures in fields such as science, public health, and literature. But Shiffrin’s presence was a highlight, especially for younger audience members who look up to her as a hero.

For the graduating class of 2025, Shiffrin’s speech was a perfect sendoff. Her journey illustrated that greatness comes not only from talent, but from perseverance, self-awareness, and service to others.

As she left the stage, Shiffrin received a standing ovation. It wasn’t just a celebration of her skiing career—it was an acknowledgment of her humanity, courage, and enduring impact.

With this honorary degree, Dartmouth has cemented Mikaela Shiffrin’s legacy as more than an athlete. She is now officially part of an academic tradition that values vision, character, and contribution to the world.

For Shiffrin, the moment marked another kind of personal milestone. “I’m honored beyond words,” she said. “This degree means so much—not just as a recognition of what I’ve done, but of what I still hope to do.”