Derek Jeter To Receive Degree From Siena College

At this year's May Commencement, Siena College will award New York Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter with an honorary degree.

The Yankees Captain will receive a Doctor of Humane Letters degree in recognition of his leadership, accomplishments on the baseball field and dedication to improving the lives of young people through his Turn 2 Foundation.

Jeter's will not be in attendance on May 13, but he will record a video message from the Times Union Center crowd, while his sister, Sharlee, will also be in attendance.

"To be awarded an honorary degree is a very humbling experience for me. I am proud to have a great institution, Siena College, recognize me for what I've accomplished on and off the field,” Jeter said. “The partnership between Siena and my Turn 2 Foundation is a testament that what I have done off the field to encourage young people to pursue their educational dreams is worthwhile. I will cherish this degree as highly as any honor I have received or will receive over the years."

Former Siena basketball players Geoff Walker ('97) grew up near and has remained close friends with Jeter and his family.

“Our families expressed the importance of being positive young men in our respective communities. We were students first and athletes second,” Walker said. “I remember when Derek was drafted. I had already committed to playing basketball at Siena.  I called his house, said congratulations and specifically said, ‘Hey man, hurry up and get to the bigs.’ At 17 years old, I didn't know he’d get there at such a lightning pace and have such a successful career.”

Jeter is a 12-time All-Star and a five-time World Series champion.