University of Missouri to award honorary degree to Chairman and CEO of Synergy Pharmaceuticals

Synergy Pharmaceuticals Inc. (NASDAQ:SGYP), today announced its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Gary S. Jacob, will be recognized and awarded with the honorary degree, Doctor of Science Honoris Causa, from his alma mater, the University of Missouri - St. Louis, at a commencement ceremony this Saturday, May 17, 2014.

Dr. Jacob is one of only six recipients voted by UMSL to be awarded with one of the highest honors the university bestows individuals. Honorary degree recipients are nominated and then selected by the committee based on rendered distinctive service, high achievement and commitment to excellence.

Dr. Jacob graduated with honors with a bachelor's degree in chemistry in 1969 from UMSL and a PhD in biochemistry from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1976. In 1991, he received UMSL's Distinguished Alumni Award and this year was named to the Chancellor's Council. Dr. Jacob will receive his honorary degree at the 2 p.m. ceremony on May 17^th in the Mark Twain Athletic and Fitness Center on campus.