Dartmouth College awarded 1,782 degrees at its annual Commencement exercises on June 12, 2012.

On a chilly day under threatening skies, an audience of more than 12,000 family and friends watched as nine honorary degrees were also conferred, including doctor of laws to former President George H.W. Bush, on his 87th birthday. The honor included an impromptu singing of “Happy Birthday” to President Bush from the audience.

“You command our gratitude not only for your accomplishments, but also for your example: love of country, devotion to family, integrity, and selflessness. In the magnificent life of the 41st President of the United States of America, Dartmouth will forever join all Americans in finding a source of inspiration and courage,” Dartmouth President Jim Yong Kim told President Bush.