Renowned Children’s Book Author and Illustrator Jan Brett to Receive Honorary Doctorate at 108th Commencement

COBLESKILL — SUNY Cobleskill Ag & Tech is proud to announce that author and illustrator Jan Brett will be awarded an honorary Doctorate of Fine Arts and deliver the keynote address at its 108th Commencement on Saturday, May 9.

Brett is a New York Times #1 bestselling author and illustrator of over 40 picture books, with more than 44 million copies in print. Renowned for her exquisite, detail-rich illustrations, her work is widely recognized as among the finest in children's literature today. Brett’s vibrant, life-like depictions of animals, landscapes, and cultural flourishes from around the world have brought lovable characters and imaginative backdrops to children for more than four decades. Her iconic illustrations are often inspired by her extensive research trips, whether it be to India, Botswana, Japan, or Alaska.

Brett's work has been selected as "Best Children's Books of the Year" by The New Yorker, Parents, Redbook, and others, and she has been featured in The Boston Globe, Travel + Leisure, The Los Angeles Times, Romper, and more. In 2021, she received the prestigious Regina Medal from the Catholic Library Association (CLA) for her continued distinguished contribution to children's literature.

Brett lives in a seacoast town in Massachusetts, near where she grew up, and spends summers with her family in the Berkshire Hills. She is also an award-winning breeder of ornamental fowl.

“Jan Brett's work has introduced generations of children to the beauty of the natural world, a value our college holds at the heart of everything we do,” said Dr. Marion Terenzio, President of SUNY Cobleskill Ag & Tech, “Her story is a reminder that our curiosity to learn, our willingness to look closely at the world around us, and genuine love for your craft are the foundations of lasting work. We are proud to honor her alongside our class of 2026 as they go out to create their life’s work.”

SUNY Cobleskill Ag & Tech’s 108th Commencement will be held Saturday, May 9 in a ceremony slated to begin at 11 a.m., outdoors, adjacent to the Neal Robbins Field House.