Hazel C. Peterson, Ph.D. chaired the Honorary Degrees Committee at the University of Idaho. A life long educator, she earned her masters at the University of Oregon, and her Ph.D. at Ohio State University. She retired from the U of I as Professor Emerita of Physical Education in 1987 "completing thirty-eight years of a teaching-service career in health and physical education."

Also in 1987, she received a National Honor Award from the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance. She has served the university as a member of the Graduate Council and University Curriculum Committee and has been a member of the executive board of the College of Education. She has also served as adviser to the Women's Recreation Association and Intramural Program for Women. Peterson was presented the Library Faculty Award for the 1981-1982 school year and is a recipient of Western Washington State University's Outstanding Teacher Award. A voting representative of the Board of Governors for the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance, she is also a member of the National Association of Physical Educat1_on in Higt,er Education, the North American Society for 51 Sport History and the International Association of Physical Education and Sports for Girls and Women.

The University of Idaho began awarding honorary degrees in 1935. The nomination process for honorary degrees is confidential. Nominations can be submitted by any person or organization but must be reviewed (or submitted) by an academic department. The criteria prefer individuals who have made a significant contribution to the State of Idaho, are residents or University of Idaho alumni, achieved scholarly distinction, or have performed exemplary public service. Historically, recipients have included senators, businesspeople, and former professors. To be considered for an honorary degree, individuals must submit a biography or a curriculum vitae with a list of their accomplishments and contributions before a given date.