Missouri State University will grant its 24th honorary doctorate to Sgt. Major Lanny Asepermy.

He will receive the Doctor of Public Affairs (A.P.D.) degree during spring 2025 commencement ceremonies.

Missouri State’s Board of Governors approved the nomination today (Feb. 21) following recommendations from the Faculty Senate and President Dr. Richard B. Williams.

“Sgt. Major Asepermy is an excellent candidate for this doctorate because of his dedication to serving the community and helping others,” said Dr. Bill Sandel, selection committee chair. “We’re proud to honor his commitment to public affairs.”

Making a difference in multiple areas

Asepermy has distinguished himself as a leader, advocate and historian.

He served his country for 24 years in the U.S. Army, holding roles from tank crewman to scout section leader to One Station Unit Training (Field Artillery) first sergeant and depot sergeant major.

He has received many awards, including the Legion of Merit, two Meritorious Service medals and eight Army Commendation medals.

His service to unrecognized veteran communities includes leading efforts to lobby Congress for the Code Talker Recognition Act and becoming the first and only Native American Ambassador for the Oklahoma Military Hall of Fame. He has also played a key role in fundraising and developing many Native American veteran monuments while holding leadership positions in various Native American veterans associations and color guards.

Asepermy has contributed to the university by lecturing in the MSU Honors program, assisting with field schools and documenting history for research. He also led the opening ceremonies for the Smithsonian Institution’s traveling exhibit “Why We Serve.”

About the honorary doctorate

Missouri State awarded its first honorary doctorate in 2003. The purpose of the award is to recognize extraordinary achievements by distinguished citizens in hope of encouraging others.

Previous recipients are Shawn Askinosie, Calvin Allen, Harold Bengsch, Dr. John Bentley, Sister Lorraine Biebel, Annie Busch, Jim Craig, Elise Crain, Nancy Brown Dornan, John Goodman, David Harrison, Jan Horton, Gordon McCann, Dr. Bert Park, Pattie Penny, John Rush, Dr. Sue Savage-Rumbaugh, Tom Strong, James Tatum, Pat Walker, Sara Lampe, Roseann Bentley and Dr. Stephen Kleinsmith.

A.P.D. degrees are granted in recognition of the recipient’s extraordinary achievements in public affairs.