EDS conferred 34 degrees including 20 Master of Divinity, six Master of Arts in Theological Studies, six Doctor of Ministry, and two Certificates of Theological Study, during services held at the First Church in Cambridge, Congregational.

Throughout her address, Wangusa illustrated her strong stance in defense of issues of justice, reconciliation, and peace. Using the gospel story of Jesus meeting the Samaritan woman at the well, she drew parallels between this conversation and current calls for reconciliation.

"At the well Jesus not only transcends cultural, religious, gender, and other stereotypes, but he also empowers and inspires the Samaritan woman to transcend the stereotypes her society had long defined and sustained," she said. "It is a place of reconciliation: the woman was reconciled to herself first. She overcame the male designation of her identity and emerged as the first to break old barriers between two Communities. The longstanding 'war' between the Jews and Samaritans ended at the well."

In closing, Wangusa urged the graduates to find "thirsty people," to recognize identity, religion, history, roots, and culture, and the importance of "true worship," and its place as a means of forming their own ministry.

Wangusa, along with Washington Bishop John Bryson Chane, Kevin Johnson, Cynthia Shattuck, and Katie Sherrod were awarded honorary degrees for their distinguished and faithful ministries in social justice.

"EDS is proud to have recognized our 2008 honorary degree recipients for their distinguished and faithful ministry in the areas of justice, compassion, and reconciliation," said Bishop Steven Charleston, EDS president and dean. "These principles are at the core of EDS as we work to develop leaders for Christ's Church and the world who will serve all of God's people. These men and woman stand with us. By bestowing the doctor of divinity degree on each of them, we celebrate five people of vision, integrity, and gospel courage."

Wangusa, a native of Uganda who helped found the African Women's Economic Policy Network, Gender and Economic Research in Africa, and the Council for Economic Empowerment of Women in Africa, was recognized by the Rev. Karen Montagno, dean of Students and Community Life, in acknowledgement of her "prophetic commitment and passion for the Church, and international human rights."

Chane was recognized by the Rev. Dr. Ian Douglas for his "Christ-centered commitment to justice with peace, in the Church and the wider world." Chane was acknowledged for his work as a peace maker and human rights activist. "You are a widely recognized strategic leader in Anglican Communion affairs, particularly dedicated to the Anglican Province of Southern Africa in their efforts to combat the HIV/AIDS pandemic," Douglas said. "Your commitment to peace and inter-faith understanding has involved you in major negotiations in the Middle East, specifically with President Khatami of Iran."

Johnson, retired NBA player with the Phoenix Suns, businessman, and activist, was recognized by trustee Judy Conley, for his commitment to "children, education, and community development." Johnson manages St. HOPE Corporation, a non-profit community development corporation designed to expand economic, education, and social opportunities for inner city communities in Arizona and California, and is the founder of St. HOPE Academy, an after school program for inner city children. In 2007, St. HOPE was recognized as "one of the nation's leaders in 'transformation high schools' -- the reinvention of comprehensive high schools to smaller, themed learning communities," said Conley. "When not leading St. HOPE's efforts, you speak regularly to universities and community groups on education, economic development, and public policy issues, as well as on the importance of being a good neighbor and giving back to communities."

Shattuck, lay woman and consulting editor for Church Publishing, was presented her honorary doctoral degree by Dr. Fredrica Harris Thompsett, "for exceptional contributions to theological publishing and scholarship." Shattuck is passionate about her work, and an entrepreneur in the religious press business. She co-edited The Oxford Guide to the Book of Common Prayer with Charles Hefling, and has published the works of authors such as Verna Dozier so their words are accessible to a wider audience. "Several members of this faculty are indebted to you both for your editorial guidance in our own publications, as well as to for publishing other volumes frequently used in our teaching," said Thompsett.

Sherrod, freelance writer and television producer in Fort Worth, Texas, is an outspoken advocate for women's reproductive rights, and for battered women. "You are a pioneer," said Nancy Davidge, director of Communications, who presented Sherrod with her degree. "Your seven part series on rape in the 1970s changed the rape laws in Texas and led to the establishment of the first rape crisis center in that state," said Davidge. "Following your example, women in newsrooms around the country began to report about rape in a transparent and compelling way, and the rape crisis movement was born in no small part due to your efforts."

In recent years, Sherrod has been a spokesperson for LGBT inclusion, and for the mainstream voice of the Episcopal Church in the Diocese of Fort Worth. "You don't give up. Even when faced with verbal abuse, threats, and ridicule, you proclaim the Gospel message is for everyone, and especially for the least, the last, the lost, and the forgotten."

EDS, formed in 1974 with the merger of Philadelphia Divinity School (founded in 1857) and Episcopal Theological School (founded in 1867), is a respected center of study and spiritual formation for lay and ordained leaders with a strong commitment to justice, compassion, and reconciliation. Offering doctor of ministry and master's degrees, as well as certificates in theological studies, EDS is located on an eight acre campus just a few blocks from Harvard Yard. He Seminary is a member of the Boston Theological Institute, a consortium of nine eminent theological schools, seminaries, and departments of religion.