Honorary Patronages of the University Philosophical Society are bestowed upon individuals external to the Society who, in the view of the Council, have contributed exceptionally to their respective fields. This distinction represents the highest honour the University Philosophical Society can confer, celebrating those whose work has shaped public discourse, advanced knowledge, and made a lasting global impact. Past recipients include U.S. President Joe Biden, Senator Bernie Sanders, filmmaker Martin Scorsese, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and actor and activist Whoopi Goldberg, along with a wide range of Nobel Laureates, World Leaders, and Olympians—whose contributions reflect the Society’s enduring commitment to meaningful dialogue, critical thought, and the pursuit of impactful ideas.