"The University of Rochester / One Hundred and Sixteenth Annual / Commencement Ceremonies." 40pp program, approx. 5 1/2 x 9 in., signed on cover by Nixon in blue ink.

Former Vice President Richard M. Nixon (in office as Vice President 1953-61) signed this program during his so-called "Wilderness Years" during which he did not hold elected office. His commencement address delivered on 5 June 1966 at the University of Rochester was entitled "Academic Freedom." While at the commencement Nixon was supposed to have received an honorary degree from the university, but student protest over the announcement resulted in Nixon announcing his personal policy that he did not accept honorary degrees. The protests, alongside Nixon's refusal to accept the honorary degree, became national headlines.