German Federal Minister for Nuclear Energy
1956
Citation:
Franz Josef Strauss is not a Jesuit alumnus, but his education in the German classical gymnasium gave him the grounding in the humanistic disciplines which is the hall-mark of the Jesuit alumnus. In his studies at the University of Munich he continues his interest in the classical languages in concern with advanced work in history and political economy. These studies eminently fitted him for his eventual career in government. He is co-founder of the Bavarian branch of the Christian Democratic Union and in 1949 was appointed national secretary general of this party. Three years later he became deputy party chairman. He has been a member of the Bundestag from the beginning and party chairman of the Christian Social Union. His rise to international prominence dates from his participation in the work of the Parliament of the European Union for Coal and Steel. His outstanding achievement in this enterprise led naturally to his appointment as Director of the Federal Department for Atomic Energy. In this capacity he has been the organizing genius in uniting the nations of Free Europe in the development of "Atoms for Peace." It is the University privilege tonight to acclaim Mr. Strauss' accomplishments in the cause of international peace and cooperation by making him an honorary Jesuit alumnus. Reverend President, I present Franz Josef Strauss for the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Laws. Commencement, University of Detroit, June 14, 1956.