San Diego State University

Kennedy spoke to about thirty thousand people in the Aztec Bowl on June 6, 1963, and took the first honorary doctorate any California state college had awarded. He used the speech to say that the chance at an education was not equally available, and to name the two reasons for it: money and race. Five days later he went on television to ask Congress for a civil rights act. The second bronze quotes him on the educated citizenry and stops, just before the clause about who holds the ultimate power.

What the plaque says

"No country can possibly move ahead, no free society can possibly be sustained, unless it has an educated citizenry..." John F. Kennedy June 6th 1963 Aztec Bowl ~ San Diego State College San Diego State University In 1960 the state legislature authorized the California State Colleges to grant honorary doctoral degrees to individuals who have made unusual contributions toward learning and civilization. On June 6, 1963 San Diego State College was the first of the California State Colleges to award the doctorate when it conferred a Doctor of Laws degree on John F. Kennedy, president of the United States. California Registered Historical Landmark No. 798 Plaque placed by the State Department of Parks and Recreation in cooperation with San Diego State University and Squibob Chapter, E Clampus Vitus, May 22, 1983.

Where it stands

More markers nearby

• El Camino Real — 2.0 mi
• Mission San Diego de Alcalá — 2.0 mi
• Bancroft Ranch House — 4.7 mi
• Mission Dam and Flume — 4.9 mi