The University of Iowa's 2012 commencements marked milestones for new grads—and old friends.

Among nearly 4,800 undergraduate and graduate degrees conferred, the university awarded honorary doctorates that recognize three Iowans for public service and bachelors degrees to students whose UI studies were cut short decades ago.

Robert Ray (center) with Gail Agrawal, dean of the College of Law, and John Keller, dean of the graduate college.

Robert Ray

Former Iowa governor Robert Ray received an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree at College of Law commencement, recognizing his leadership and dedication to causes like character education, fairness in the court system, civil rights, and aid to refugees. Ray has also served as interim president of Drake University and interim mayor of Des Moines.

Stanley Redeker (center) with UI President Sally Mason and Keller.

Stanley Redeker

Stanley Redeker, former president of the Iowa Board of Regents and a community leader in Boone, Iowa, received an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree at Graduate College commencement. Appointed to the Board of Regents in 1961, Redeker became a unifying force during a time of challenge and change.

Robert Osterhaus (center) with Donald Letendre, dean of the College of Pharmacy, and Keller.

Robert Osterhaus

Pharmacy leader Robert Osterhaus earned an Honorary Doctor of Science degree, presented at College of Pharmacy Commencement. Osterhaus has trained and mentored countless students and professionals at his independent pharmacy in Maquoketa, and is champion for pharmaceutical care, pharmacy education, and the pharmacy profession.

Nancy Schneider Hanson

In addition, the UI recognized Nancy Schneider Hanson, who like Don Nelson returned to receive the degree she started 50 years earlier—in this case, a bachelor of arts in political science.

Nancy Schneider Hanson (left) with Mason and Linda Maxson, dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Hanson has been an advocate for the homeless, particularly those dealing with illness or injury. She founded Chicago's Interfaith Respite Center to serve people who've been discharged from hospitals, but have no where to go. Today some 50 programs follow similar models.

Hanson also holds degrees from the University of Charleston and the University of Illinois, Chicago.