Gay McDougall, senior fellow and distinguished scholar in residence at Fordham Law’s Center on Race, Law & Justice, will receive an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from the University of London in this year’s School of Advanced Study’s graduation ceremony on December 7.
McDougall is being recognized for decades of inspiring work in international human rights, which includes service as director of the Southern African Project of the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, special rapporteur on the issue of systematic rape and sexual slavery practices in armed conflict for the UN Sub-Commission on Promotion and Protection of Human Rights, and chair of the International Council of Minority Rights Group International.
In addition to her position at Fordham Law, McDougall currently serves as vice-chair and member of the UN treaty body that oversees compliance with the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination.
A recipient of the MacArthur “Genius” Award, McDougall holds a J.D. from Yale Law School and an LL.M. from the London School of Economics and Political Science. She holds honorary doctorates from institutions including Emory University, Georgetown University School of Law, and City University of New York Law School. In 2015, the Government of South Africa awarded McDougall the Order of O.R. Tambo Medal, their national medal of honor for non-citizens.
Professor Rick Rylance, dean and chief executive at the University of London’s School of Advanced Study, called McDougall “a tireless champion of human rights.”
“Her work on the international stage is an example to all,” he said. “It is an honor to welcome her.”