SMU Awards Honorary Doctorate to Bishop Francis Lysinge

June 20, 2014 - PRLog -- Buea, Cameroon – Saturday, May 3, 2014: Saint Monica University (SMU): The American International University today announced that The Right Reverend Doctor Francis Teke Lysinge, STL, DD, Bishop Emeritus of the Catholic Diocese of Mamfe, has been conferred the Degree of Doctor of Humane Letters, Honoris Causa. The retired bishop was honored for his lifetime achievements, and especially for his outstanding social, economic, and spiritual achievements as the pioneer Bishop of the Diocese of Mamfe.

“I feel humbled to be recognized for my lifetime achievements, especially for the work that my team of priests, religious, and dedicated laypeople did for the people of God in Mamfe,” said The Right Reverend Doctor Francis Teke Lysinge, STL, DD, LHD. “I dedicate this award to all my heroes and to all those who helped me accomplish whatever I have been able to do. I have simply always wanted to be of service to society and I am pleased that Saint Monica University recognizes the value of selfless service in a world driven by unbridled materialism. I am also very pleased with the mission and vision of this university, which amongst other things promises to nurture global citizens who are people of integrity and great learning – saints and scholars. I earnestly pray that the good Lord will bring the beautiful work He has begun in you to fulfillment.”

The degree of Doctor of Humane Letters (Latin: Litterarum humanarum doctor; DHL or LHD) is always conferred as an honorary degree (honoris causa), usually to those who have distinguished themselves in a specific area. Writing to the eminent bishop of about the award, Prof. Januarius J. Asongu, President of SMU said: “SMU is honoring you for your tireless commitment to social development… [and] for your contributions as an internationally recognized leader and educator in social development, diversity, social justice, and human rights.”

The Reverend Father Janvier Olomo Essama, Catholic Education Secretary for the Diocese of Mbalmayo said the following about The Right Reverend Doctor Lysinge: “As he graciously retired earlier this year, his episcopacy has been marked by positive growth that is far beyond everyone’s expectations. He has implanted himself as a shepherd on whom the People of God in Mamfe could count. He has provided for both the material and spiritual needs of his flock, and is known to be outstanding in prayer, penance, and love for the poor and the oppressed. Because of his simplicity and love of his flock, he has been called ‘the people’s Bishop.’ SMU is truly honored to have Bishop Lysinge as a friend and counselor. Given his academic, vocational, and philanthropic contributions to society in general and the Church in Mamfe in particular, I am proud to present The Right Reverend Francis Teke Lysinge, STL, DD, for the award of the degree of Doctor of Humane Letters, honoris causa.”

“SMU found in Bishop Lysinge an excellent candidate for the honorary degree given that he is the perfect example of the values the university desires for its students,” said Prof. Stephen Denis Fomin, Registrar and Acting Vice President of Academic Affairs at SMU. “Our students are expected to improve the common good by utilizing their skills and knowledge to promote tolerance, compassion, and social justice. Our curriculum is designed to engage students with important social concerns, both domestic and international, and prepare them to lead as informed citizens, socially responsive professionals, and active members of the community. It is because of this that our motto is Servire Sine Fine, the Latin for ‘Service Without Limit,’ and our slogan is ‘Transforming Lives; Transforming Society’.”

About Saint Monica University: The American International University

Saint Monica University (SMU) is an American-style private Christian institution, offering programs that are at the intersection of the liberal arts, science and technology. It is dedicated to providing educational opportunities for the intellectual, social, entrepreneurial and professional development of a diverse student population. SMU is focused on the student experience and helping our students achieve their educational and career goals, and contributing to a more sustainable society.  We offer various bachelor's, master's, and doctorate degrees through the School of Arts & Education (SAE), School of Business & Public Policy (SBPP), School of Health & Human Services (SHHS), and School of Science, Engineering & Technology (SSET). SMU is accredited in the United Kingdom by the Accreditation Service for International Schools, Colleges, and University (ASIC) with Accreditation No: AS22357/0614. SMU is also fully accredited in Cameroon by the National Commission on Private Higher Education at the Ministry of Higher Education with the Ordinance of Creation No: E14/0028/MINESUP/SG/DDES and the Ministerial Letter No: 14/01319/L/MINESUP/SG/DDES/ESUP/SDA/OAGS authorizing its operation. For more information about SMU, visit our website: www.smuedu.org or write to us at admissions@stmonicauniversity.com.