Press Release:
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Terrence J. Giroux to Receive Honorary Doctorate from
High Point University, Recognizing 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, will be 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.
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The honorary degree will be conferred by Dr. Nido Qubein, President of High Point
University and a 2006 Member of the Horatio Alger Association. The presentation will
take place during a special ceremony on Thursday, May 1, 2025, on the campus of High
Point University. Also in attendance will be Dr. Robert J. Brown, esteemed civil rights
leader, business executive, and a 1990 Member of the Horatio Alger Association.
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.
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He was also a strong advocate for expanding scholarship access to students pursuing technical
and trade education. 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.”
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.
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.