Senator Katie Britt Honored with Doctorate by Tuskegee University

U.S. Senator Katie Britt has been awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws degree by Tuskegee University during the institution’s homecoming weekend convocation. This recognition comes as a testament to her leadership and advocacy for the university, as stated by Dr. Mark Brown, the President and CEO of Tuskegee.

During the ceremony, Dr. Brown highlighted Britt’s tangible contributions to the university, noting her pivotal role in launching the new Aviation Science Program within the College of Engineering. He emphasized, “Senator Britt’s actions, as a friend of Tuskegee, it’s not just talk. She has successfully launched the successful Aviation Science Program… Your instrumental support and $6.7 million is transforming the future of flight education and honoring the proud legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen.”

Britt expressed her deep connection to the university and its community. “When I was traveling the state campaigning, I came here and it was undeniable what I felt when I met with students, met with faculty and met with the administration here at Tuskegee,” she stated. “It’s one of the reasons that I made a commitment that day to always be your partner, because I believe you don’t just represent the future, you all represent the now.”

In addition to the honorary degree, Britt’s efforts have led to significant funding for Tuskegee University. Last year, she successfully secured $6.7 million to establish a new flight school degree program. Recently, she also obtained $5.29 million to expand this program as part of the Fiscal Year 2026 Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Act, which is currently advancing in the Senate.

Britt’s involvement extends beyond educational programs. Earlier this year, she acted swiftly after Alabama’s Tuskegee Airmen were removed from the U.S. Air Force’s basic training curriculum. Following her intervention, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth acknowledged her efforts, recognizing the “malicious compliance” that had led to this oversight and promptly reinstated the Tuskegee Airmen into the curriculum.

Furthermore, Britt addressed the temporary suspension of the 1890 Scholars Program, which provides federal scholarships to students at 1890 Land-Grant Institutions. Her advocacy led to the reopening of applications just a week later by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

The decision to confer the honorary doctorate to Sen. Britt has elicited varied reactions from alumni, students, and community members. While many appreciate her commitment and support for Tuskegee, others have expressed differing opinions regarding the recognition.

As Senator Britt continues her work in the Senate, she remains focused on her constituents and the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen, aiming to ensure their contributions are acknowledged and celebrated.