John Egan, a New Scotland resident who helped shape the local landscape will be awarded an honorary degree on Dec. 16 as the University at Albany holds its winter commencement ceremony.

Carol Gilligan, the psychologist and author who is considered a pioneer of gender studies, will also receive an honorary degree and deliver the keynote address.

Egan’s career working for the state spans more than half a century. He was involved in the construction of the Empire State Plaza and the Harriman Office Building Campus.

He was also chief executive officer of the Albany International Airport, overseeing its renovation and expansion.

Over 1,000 students will earn their degrees, including 630 undergraduates in about 50 different majors. The ceremony will begin at 1 p.m. in the SEFCU arena.