NEWS

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High Point University Confers Honorary Doctorate on Terrence J. Giroux,

Honoring a Legacy of Educational Leadership and Service

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HIGH POINT, N.C., May 1, 2025 — Terrence J. Giroux, Executive Director Emeritus of

the Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans, was awarded an Honorary

Doctorate of Professional Leadership by High Point University in recognition of his

lifelong dedication to expanding educational opportunity, championing principled

leadership, and empowering young people through scholarship and support.

The honorary degree was conferred by Dr. Nido Qubein, President of High Point

University and a 2006 Member of the Horatio Alger Association. The presentation took

place during a commencement ceremony on Thursday, May 1, 2025, on the campus of High

Point University.  Dr. Robert J. Brown, esteemed civil rights leader, business executive, and himself a 1990 Member of the Horatio Alger Association, was also in attendance. 

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Mr. Giroux served as Executive Director of the Horatio Alger Association for 36 years,

from 1988 to 2024. Under his leadership, the Association evolved from a modest

scholarship program into one of the nation’s largest providers of need-based

scholarships, awarding more than $265 million to over 37,000 students across the

United States and Canada—many of whom were the first in their families to attend

college or trade school.

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“Terry’s leadership at the Horatio Alger Association was extraordinary,” said James F.

Dicke, Chairman of the Association. “He always saw the potential in the thousands of

young Scholars he championed—in spite of their challenges. Terry’s advocacy and

faith in their future transformed their lives for the better. I can think of no better legacy

for any man.”

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“Dr. Giroux is a remarkable servant leader whose humility is exceeded only by his

impeccable character,” added Dr. Nido Qubein, President of High Point University.

“His love for education and young people is demonstrated amply through his

dedicated and committed stewardship over the past five decades.”

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Throughout his career, Mr. Giroux has been recognized for his vision, selflessness, and

steadfast belief in the American Dream. Beyond scholarship access, he pioneered a

comprehensive approach to student success, developing enduring Scholar Support

Programs that offer academic resources, wellness services, career development opportunities, and emergency financial aid. He was also a strong advocate for

expanding scholarship access to students pursuing technical and trade education.

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A hallmark of Mr. Giroux’s leadership was the profound respect he held for the

Association’s Members—outstanding individuals who overcame significant adversity to

achieve remarkable success across entrepreneurship, business, public service,

athletics, the arts, and entertainment. Many became not only collaborators but lifelong

friends. As one Member observed, “Terry doesn’t just lead—he cares, and that has

made all the difference.”

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Prior to his service with the Horatio Alger Association, Mr. Giroux held leadership roles

in education and civic engagement, including with Presidential Classroom for Young

Americans, the National Association of Secondary School Principals, and Chapman

College’s World Campus Afloat. A graduate of Illinois Wesleyan University, he earned

his master’s degree in Business and Educational Administration from George Mason

University, following graduate study at the University of Virginia.

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Mr. Giroux and his wife, Barbara, reside in Virginia, where they continue to support

educational and civic initiatives. They are the proud parents of a son, Michael,

daughter-in-law Andrea, and grandparents to two grandchildren.

 

The honorary doctorate awarded by High Point University celebrates the enduring

values Mr. Giroux has embodied throughout his life: integrity, compassion, and an

unwavering belief in the potential of every young person to overcome adversity and

achieve greatness.