Many congratulations to our recent Honorary Graduates. 

At our latest ceremonies we were privileged to award honorary degrees to five remarkable individuals - including welcoming back to Durham award winning actress and playwright, alumna Charlotte Riley. Charlotte studied English and was a member of St Cuthbert’s Society. She is best known for her roles in ITV’s Wuthering Heights, 2018 BBC drama Press, and as May Carleton in the hit show Peaky Blinders.

Charlotte Riley

Other alumni honoured for their achievements were Robert Senior, former Worldwide CEO of advertising agency Saatchi and Saatchi and advocate of the University.

Mike Barton CBE, former Chief Constable of Durham Constabulary, who was awarded Doctor of Civil Law.

Renewable energy specialist Benj Sykes, UK Offshore Head of Market Development, Consenting and External Affairs for the renewable energy company Ørsted, was honoured for his work to become Doctor of Science.

Singer, songwriter, and co-founder of the Pet Shop Boys, Neil Tennant, was awarded a Doctor of Letters.

Our honorary graduates are among the very best in their chosen fields and set an inspiring example to our graduates as they embark on their new lives and careers.