Distinguished businessman, legendary entrepreneur, civic-minded advocate, he has exhibited singular vision as a leader of the information-systems revolution and as a reformer of public education. Founder of Electronic Data Systems, he developed the company into an industry leader. In 1979 he directed a team of EDS employees in rescuing two colleagues held hostage in Iran. Working with the U.S. government, he helped to change treatment of U.S. prisoners of war in North Vietnam. At the request of Texas Governor William P. Clements, he chaired the Texas War on Drugs Committee, leading to enactment of stricter anti-drug laws. For Texas Governor Mark White he headed the Select Committee on Public Education, resulting in passage of comprehensive reforms. Now chairman of Perot Systems Corporation, he continues his advocacy and philanthropy on behalf of education, health care and the arts. For his outstanding achievements serving society and the public good, SMU is pleased to confer upon him the degree of Doctor of Humane Letters, honoris causa.