BURLINGTON — Ben Stein’s out. Howard Dean’s in.

The University of Vermont, which initially invited comedian Ben Stein to deliver the commencement address at its May 17 graduation, will have former Vermont Gov. Howard Dean do the honors instead.

Dean, who served six terms as governor and was a presidential candidate before going on to chair the Democratic National Committee, will get an honorary degree.

Stein, who was tapped by university President Daniel Fogel, backed out amid controversy over his criticism of evolutionary theory and support for intelligent design.