Honoured by GCU
Our honorary graduates shared their industry insight with graduating students as they received honorary degrees from Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU).
Former Australian Prime Minister, Julia Gillard received a Doctor of Laws (LLD) for her commitment to gender equality and access to education.
Deacon Blue’s Ricky Ross received a Doctor of Letters in recognition of his contribution to Scottish music and culture, and support of the GCU Archive Centre.
He was followed by curler Vicky Wright MBE, who received a Doctor of Science (DSc) for her contribution to public wellbeing through her work on the front line of nursing and her success at the Olympic Games.
A Doctor of Letters (DLitt) in recognition of his continued inspiration to the creative industry was awarded to Simon Neil, a vocalist, guitarist and songwriter with the award-winning Scottish band Biffy Clyro.
Jonny Benjamin MBE received a Doctor of Letters for his contribution to mental health services and suicide prevention. Jonny is a mental health campaigner, author and vlogger.
Ian Urquhart CBE received a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) for his leadership, development and management across several sectors and notably quality Scottish products such as cashmere and whisky.
Author Bernardine Evaristo OBE received a Doctor of Letters for her contribution to literature and human rights. She has won many prizes for her literary works, including the Booker Prize in 2019 and the British Book Awards.
Harriette Campbell was recognised with a Doctor of Letters for her support to African and Caribbean women in Scotland. Harriette is a founding member of the African and Caribbean Women's Association and a board member of West of Scotland Regional Equality Council.
Philanthropist Daniel Schwartz received a Doctor of Business Administration for his contribution to philanthropy.
Major Patrick Burgess MBE received an honorary Doctor of Science. He was recognised for his commitment to improving mental health and wellbeing for military personnel and civilians, through the embedding of mindfulness programmes in military training that are also accessible to the public.
Professor Jackie Taylor was recognised with a Doctor of Science for her contribution to geriatric medicine and improving health and wellbeing in the workplace. President of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow, Jackie is an honorary professor at Glasgow University.
Mark Hogarth, Creative Director of Harris Tweed Hebrides, received a Doctor of Letters for his commitment to fashion, design and branding.
Award-winning creator of dramas including Three Girls and The Nest, Nicole Taylor was recognised with a Doctor of Letters for her outstanding contribution to screenwriting and to supporting Scottish talent.
Chief Operating Officer of ACS Clothing, Anthony Burns received a Doctor of Business Administration for his outstanding contribution to sustainable fashion.
Ian Young OBE was recognised with a Doctor of Engineering for his outstanding services to engineering and civic commitment.
Jim Paterson received a Doctor of Science for his contribution to marine engineering and for transforming the lives of marginalised people through his work with the world’s largest civilian hospital ship.
Founder and Chair of Redress, Christina Dean was awarded a Doctor of Business Administration in recognition of her commitment to creating a more sustainable fashion industry.
Katie Murray was awarded a Doctor of Business Administration in recognition of her contribution to accountancy, finance and risk, and to gender balance in these fields.
Paralympian Michael Kerr was recognised with a Doctor of Science for his sporting achievements and support for the development of sport for athletes with a disability.
Emma Ritch was awarded a posthumous Doctor of the University In recognition of her outstanding contribution to gender policy and advancing women’s rights and economic status.
Emma was the Executive Director of the policy think tank Engender as well as a regular guest lecturer at GCU.