EDMONDS, WA — Famed travel writer and television personality Rick Steves was awarded an honorary doctorate in economics this week by Edmonds Learing Center, cementing his status as one of Washington state’s foremost authorities on taxation, wealth, and what other people should do with their money.
The honorary degree was presented during a small ceremony Monday afternoon. Attendees included mainly staff although registration for the event was reportedly maxed out.
“Rick has spent decades traveling throughout Europe,” said the center’s director Omar Ali. “So when it comes to economics, frankly, we’re not sure who would be more qualified.”
Steves graciously accepted the honor, once again insisting that people care deeply about his opinions.
“I’ve been to Denmark,” he said.
The audience of 6 erupted in applause.
The learing center said Steves will now be permitted to use the title “Dr. Steves” whenever discussing tax policy, income inequality, healthcare, or charming victorian architecture.
Critics questioned whether decades of travel experience constituted sufficient training to receive an advanced degree in economics.
When asked for a response, Steves dismissed those concerns. “I’ve also been to Guatemala.”
Faculty immediately began discussing tenure.
At press time, the learing center was reportedly preparing to award Steves an honorary doctorate in urban planning after discovering he had also ridden a train.