Honorary doctorate degrees are given to those who have contributed significantly to a specific field or society but have not completed the conventional academic requirements. The majority of colleges and universities award these honorary degrees at graduation ceremonies to celebrate excellence in fields like writing, science and philanthropy or social activism. The nominations typically are made by the faculty, board members or community leaders. The recipients could include prominent individuals such as authors, scientists or philanthropists. They may also be activists. While honorary doctorates aren't granted the same privileges in academics like earned degrees but they do have symbolic significance and recognize outstanding achievements in society or the field of knowledge.