Family of slain University of Michigan medical student presented his diploma at commencement

A memorial plaque and tree honoring student Paul Daniel DeWolf, donated by his family, in Ann Arbor, Mich.

ASSOCIATED PRESS

A memorial plaque and tree honoring student Paul Daniel DeWolf, donated by his family, in Ann Arbor, Mich.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — The family of a University of Michigan student slain during a burglary was presented his medical degree at what would have been his graduation.

Paul DeWolf was recognized during today’s commencement ceremonies in Ann Arbor.

The Ann Arbor News reports that school regents voted to award DeWolf the degree.

The 25-year-old was shot to death last July during a break-in at his off-campus fraternity house. Three men have been charged in the slaying.

DeWolf also was posthumously awarded the John Patrick Niland Award. The school says the annual award is given by the graduating class to the student who “most exemplifies the important attributes of empathy, compassion, patience and a love of medicine.”

The Medical School’s Student Council also will present the annual “Paul DeWolf Award” beginning next year.