In a heartwarming gesture, Vermont State University’s Castleton campus has bestowed the honorary degree of “doctor of litter-ature” on Max the cat, a cherished member of its community, ahead of the students’ graduation on Saturday.
Max, the friendly tabby, has become an affectionate fixture on campus, endearing himself to students with his sociable nature. The university recognized Max not for his mousing or napping skills, but for his remarkable ability to spread joy and camaraderie among the student body.
“Max the Cat has been an affectionate member of the Castleton family for years,” the school announced in a Facebook post, highlighting the feline’s significant impact on campus life.
Max resides with his human family in a house situated on the street leading to the main entrance of the campus. His owner, Ashley Dow, explained how Max naturally integrated into the campus community. “He decided to go up on campus and just started hanging out with the college students, and they love him,” Dow said. Max has been mingling with students for about four years, becoming a beloved figure known for taking selfies and joining campus tours.
“I don’t even know how he knows to go, but he does,” Dow remarked. Max follows prospective students on their tours, delighting both current and future members of the university community. Students affectionately refer to Dow as Max’s mum, and returning graduates often inquire about his well-being.
Although Max won’t attend the graduation ceremony in person, his honorary degree will be delivered to his owner. This recognition places Max in the company of other animals who have received human credentials. In 2020, Moose, an eight-year-old therapy dog, was awarded an honorary doctorate in veterinary medicine from Virginia Tech University for his work with students. Similarly, in 2016, a 19-year-old thoroughbred horse named Dr. Teddy received an honorary doctorate from the University of California Davis for his contributions as a Master Equine Educator.
Max’s honorary degree celebrates not only his role in the Castleton campus community but also highlights the joy and comfort that animals can bring to human lives.
