The university will also bestow honorary degrees on Janet Judge, a collegiate sports and employment attorney, and Tom Rush, an American folk and blues singer born in Portsmouth, it announced in a news release Thursday.

The Walter Peterson award is named for New Hampshire’s 72nd governor and Franklin Pierce University’s second president.

“Sheriff Rivera’s unwavering dedication to public service and safety in Cheshire County has not only set a standard for ethical law enforcement but has also significantly strengthened the bonds of trust and respect within our community,” said University President Kim Mooney. “His leadership, alongside his commitment to engaging with our youth and educational communities, exemplifies the spirit of the Walter R. Peterson Citizen Leader Award.”

Rivera, a 1997 graduate of Franklin Pierce, was elected Cheshire County Sheriff in 2012, becoming the first person of color to hold the position, and plays an active role in the Monadnock Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Coalition, the university said. He’s also worked with Franklin Pierce on race and policing issues.