Eight to receive an honorary degree at winter ceremonies

A Paralympian rugby star, a leading figure in a hospital ship organisation and an award-winning screenwriter are to be honoured as part of Glasgow Caledonian University’s winter graduation ceremonies.

Eight notable personalities will be recognised with honorary degrees for embodying the University’s Common Good mission in their field.

Paralympian Michael Kerr will be recognised with a Doctor of Science for his sporting achievements and support for the development of sport for athletes with a disability.

Award-winning creator of dramas including Three Girls and The Nest, Nicole Taylor will be recognised with a Doctor of Letters for her outstanding contribution to screenwriting and to supporting Scottish talent.

Mercy Ships’ Executive Consultant Jim Paterson will receive 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.

At the ceremonies, graduates will also hear messages from the University's leadership team, including a farewell message from Vice Chancellor and Principal Professor Pamela Gillies CBE.

Principal and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Pamela Gillies CBE FRSE, said: “Graduation ceremonies are very special events at which the whole University community comes together as one to celebrate the considerable achievements of our talented students, all of whom are strongly committed to our mission for the common good.

“Graduations also afford us the opportunity to welcome distinguished individuals into our GCU family as honorary graduates. This year we are privileged indeed to honour many worthy recipients. They all share a deeply held core set of values that align with our own. They authentically live these values and are an inspiration to us all.”

The University will also award honorary degrees to the following:

• Ian R Young OBE will be recognised with a Doctor of Engineering for his outstanding services to engineering and civic commitment.
• Founder and Chair of Redress, Christina Dean will be awarded a Doctor of Business Administration in recognition of her commitment to creating a more sustainable fashion industry (awarded in London on November 7).
• Katie Murray will be awarded a Doctor of Business Administration in recognition of her contribution to accountancy, finance and risk, and to gender balance in the fields (awarded in London on November 7).
• Emma Ritch will be awarded a posthumous Doctor of the University In recognition of her outstanding contribution to gender policy and advancing women’s rights and economic status.
• Chief Operating Officer of ACS Clothing, Anthony Burns will receive a Doctor of Business Administration for his outstanding contribution to sustainable fashion.