The University of Dayton will honor Cardinal Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson with an honorary doctorate during the inaugural conference of the U.S. Chapter of the Committee of Pan American Judges on Social Justice March 26-28 at the University of Dayton.

"Throughout his ministry, Cardinal Turkson has been a tireless advocate for the poor and marginalized, championing the cause of human dignity. He has been a vocal proponent of Pope Francis's call for highlighting the interconnectedness of environmental and social issues. His work has focused on promoting sustainable development, addressing climate change, and fostering peace and reconciliation," said University of Dayton President Eric F. Spina.

Ordained a priest in 1975, Turkson served in pastoral roles in Ghana before being appointed archbishop of Cape Coast, Ghana, in 1992. Pope John Paul II named him cardinal in 2003. Turkson's service at the Vatican has included appointments by Pope Francis to leadership positions advocating for justice and peace, human development and the pan-Amazon region, among others.

Turkson is a sought-after speaker, including delivering addresses at several colleges and universities, the United Nations and the World Economic Forum.

Several U.S. Catholic colleges and universities have recognized Cardinal Turkson with honorary doctorates, including Villanova (Pennsylvania) University; Holy Cross College in Notre Dame, Indiana; Mount Saint Mary College in Newburgh, New York; Duquesne University in Pittsburgh; St. John's University in Queens, New York; and the University of St. Francis in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Santa Clara University presented him with its highest honor, the St. Clare Medal.

For more information, interviews or a headshot; contact Shawn Robinson, associate director of news and communications, at 937-229-3391, 937-545-5421 or srobinson1@udayton.edu.