University set to recognise leading figures with honorary degreesTemplate

Leading figures from the fields of health, higher education, industry, culture and the charitable sector are set to receive honorary degrees from the University of Derby next week.

From next Wednesday, the university will be holding its summer graduation ceremonies at Derby Arena.

Among those to receive special recognition will be Gillian Sewell, who earlier this year announced she was stepping down as chief executive of YMCA Derbyshire, QUAD chair Mark Gregory and the university’s long-serving secretary and registrar June Hughes.

Professor Kathryn Mitchell CBE DL, vice-chancellor and chief executive of the University of Derby, said: “It is a privilege to celebrate the outstanding individuals and organisations who will receive honorary awards at our upcoming graduation ceremonies in Derby – a moment that brings together the very best of our university community.

“This year’s honourees have each made a profound difference through their leadership, creativity and commitment – strengthening communities, opening up opportunities, and driving positive change locally, nationally and beyond.

“Their achievements reflect the impact we strive for as a university rooted in our region and connected to the world.

“We are proud to share their stories with our graduates, who I hope will be inspired to be equally ambitious in shaping their careers, their communities and the future.”

Gillian, who has spent over 30 years transforming opportunities for young people through her leadership of YMCA Derbyshire, will receive an honorary doctorate in recognition of her outstanding leadership and commitment to social impact across the region.

During her career, she has led major developments including the rebuilding of the organisation’s London Road campus and the creation of Foundry Point, providing affordable homes and pathways into education and employment for young people.

She also founded YMCA Key College and YMCA Y Kidz, contributed to initiatives tackling child poverty, and established the Lewis Sewell Memorial Trust following the loss of her son to support aspiring performers.  

Mark is former general counsel of Rolls-Royce, where he led a global legal team during a distinguished 21-year career with the Derby-based global engineering firm.

Since 2022, he has also chaired the board of trustees at QUAD, supporting inclusive and cultural opportunities across the region.

June, who spent 37 years at the University of Derby, played a key role in the institution gaining university status in 1992.

Widely respected across the higher education sector, June dedicated her career to improving student outcomes and academic governance.

Others to be recognised include former NHS assistant director of clinical leadership and education (nursing & midwifery), Jackie Brocklehurst,  who will receive an Honorary Master of Science.

A registered nurse for 43 years, Jackie was awarded the prestigious title of Queen’s Nurse in 2017 in recognition of excellence in patient care, leadership and learning.

And Emeritus Professor Huw Davies, an internationally recognised artistic researcher, filmmaker, photographer and curator, who led the university’s partnership with FORMAT International Photography Festival, will also receive an honorary degree. 

Last year, the University of Derby launched a new award category – the Honorary Partnership Award – designed to recognise the university’s outstanding collaborative partnerships.

Receiving the award this year is Firs Primary School in recognition of its longstanding partnership with the university, including supporting and developing students, sharing best practice, collaborating on research projects, and driving a shared commitment to social mobility and inclusivity.