SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (AP) - Missouri State University will award an honorary degree next May to actor and alumnus John Goodman.

The St. Louis native and 1975 graduate of the school then called Southwest Missouri State University will receive an honorary doctorate of humanities at the spring commencement.

Goodman was nominated for the honor by the faculty senate and Missouri State president Clif Smart. The Board of Governors approved the nomination Friday.

University officials say Goodman been a strong supporter of the Springfield school, speaking to students and classes, donating to scholarships and supporting both athletic and theater activities.

The university also noted Goodman’s work and contributions on behalf of victims of Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans, where he now lives.

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