Findlay, Ohio, Dec. 6, 2004 – The University of Findlay will award an honorary degree to George M. Whitson of Findlay during commencement exercises on Saturday, Dec. 11 at 2 p.m. in the Koehler Fitness and Recreation Complex.

Whitson, a native of Lansing, Mich., and longtime Findlay resident, has been a strong supporter of numerous civic, social and cultural organizations. He has served on the boards of many such organizations. His real estate development company has helped to create commercial expansion opportunities for many businesses throughout Northwest Ohio.

The citation for the degree notes that Mr. Whitson’s approach is “to consider how people and projects can be made better and how he can help in that process. He follows through with careful planning, by investing or giving his resources, by encouraging others to be cooperative members of the communities in which they live, and by encouraging others to support their communities, their churches, and their businesses.”

Whitson was named a Distinguished Associate of the University in 1991 and became a University trustee the following year. He continues to serve as a trustee of the University.