Photograph of Decherd Turner, Levi A. Olan, Dean Joseph D. Quillian, and Bishop Noah Watson Moore at Southern Methodist University, May 26, 1968
SMU granted honorary degrees to Rabbi Olan and Bishop Moore in 1968. Pictured with the recipients just prior to the ceremony are Bridwell Library Director Decherd Turner and Perkins School of Theology Dean Joseph Quillian. Olan’s citation reads:
Distinguished religious leader, educator, humanitarian, he has extended the honored role of rabbi (Teacher) beyond the bounds of his congregation to include the whole Southwest region. As an eloquent preacher and lecturer, he has communicated the best of the Jewish heritage to a wide audience with great integrity and compassion. As a university regent and dedicated public servant, he has upheld the human cause in many crises and has won for himself our admiration and true affection. It is this rare combination of talent and devotion that we delight to recognize this day with the degree of Doctor of Humane Letters, honoris causa.
