04/30/2013
Lowell Sun
LOWELL -- Boston Police Commissioner Edward Davis, University of Massachusetts Lowell's commencement speaker, will receive an honorary degree that day as well.
The University of Massachusetts Board of Trustees on Tuesday approved the degree for Davis at the request of UMass Lowell Chancellor Marty Meehan.
In a statement, Meehan said Davis's leadership following the Boston Marathon bombings personified "Boston Strong.''
"He is an excellent role model for our students because he demonstrates how good leaders need not only top-notch skills in their professions, but must also have strong character and the ability to employ both in times of crisis." Meehan said.
Davis has been Boston's commissioner since 2006, leading more than 2,000 officers and 800 civilian employees. Davis began his public-safety career as a Lowell police officer in 1978, ascending to police superintendent in 1994.
Davis also has worked with the university's Department of Criminal Justice, helping students integrate classroom lessons with his real-world experience and collaborating with faculty. Days before the bombing Davis participated on a panel at the school's annual Day Without Violence.