Africa Agenda The board members of the Denver Institute of Urban Studies and the community in Denver present honorary doctorates to Juanis Lual and Shana Shaw. December 31st, 2025
The first time I learned about the Denver Institute for Urban Studies was a long time ago. That was on June 11th, 2007. I attended a fundraising ceremony in honor of the African Heritage celebration at the First Presbyterian Church in Denver.
Before and after that fateful event, the Denver-based grassroots educational institution continues to award honorary degrees. These degrees go to deserving members of the community,
The latest awards ceremony took place on December 31st at the Dayton Opportunity Center in Denver.
In a solemn ceremony marked by speeches and accolades, Institute founder Dr. H. Malcolm Newton welcomed attendees to the ceremony. He said the purpose was to confer the degree of Honorary Doctor of Humanitarian to Juanis Lual and Shana Shaw, respectively. Lual is a native of South Sudan. Meanwhile, Shaw is from Aurora, Colorado.
Community-focused Education
“You will never find a university or a school like the Urban Institute that focuses on the interests of the individual,” Newton said.
Speaking from the podium, board chair of the institute, Dr. Marjorie Lewis, spelled out how honorary doctorate degrees differ from other academic credentials such as Ph. D.s and JDs.
“We are gathered here today to recognize and honor individuals who have achieved a level of community service that merits honoring and acknowledgement, relative to the honorary doctorate, “she said.
Lewis said the honorary degree is the oldest credential and requires the greatest amount of work when it is administered appropriately.
Attendees included retired University of Denver professor, Dr. Peter Van Arsdale. The attendees also included politician, Dr. Eric Nelson, as well as Rev. Thomas Mayes of Living Water Christian Church in Aurora.
