Call him "Doctor." Former San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown will receive an honorary doctor of laws degree from San Francisco State University during next month's commencement ceremonies.

Brown, 70, is being honored 40 years after his political career began when he was elected to the state Assembly. He rose quickly to the role of speaker of the Assembly before leaving Sacramento to serve as mayor of San Francisco.

"Willie Brown has served our state and our city with great distinction and dedication," said SFSU President Robert Corrigan. "His outstanding record of public service and political leadership has helped make our communities better for all. Willie Brown's countless contributions to society are a true reflection of the values of the CSU and San Francisco State University."

Each CSU campus nominates honorary degree recipients annually to recognize them for meritorious and outstanding service to the CSU, the campuses and the state of California, the United States or to humanity at large.

"It is the highest honor to have the university that gave me the first step on the ladder to higher education recognize what I have accomplished with my degree," Brown said.