Past recipients of honorary degrees
A list of our honorary graduates can be viewed here.
2024 honorary degree recipients
Professor Shirley J. Thompson OBE, a composer, artistic director, Professor of Music, conductor, filmmaker, writer, violinist, and cultural activist. She graduated from the University of Liverpool in 1979 with a BA Hons in Music.
Liverpool born Dr Steve Garnett, a technology entrepreneur with one of the most distinguished careers in the software industry. Steve was born and raised in Fazakerley and is a passionate advocate of education. He has made several significant donations in support of The University of Liverpool Maths School.
Paul Duhaney, Artistic Director of Africa Oyé, the UK’s largest celebration of African music and culture. Moving to Liverpool in 1999, Paul has given nearly 25 years of his professional and personal life to the arts and cultural scene of Liverpool and the UK.
Alumnus John T.C Chuang is Group Chief Executive Officer of Delfi Limited, formerly known as Petra Foods Limited – one of the world’s largest cocoa-producing companies. John graduated from the University in 1973 with a BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering.
Former University of Liverpool student, Dame Amanda Blanc, Group Chief Executive Officer of Aviva, the UK’s leading insurance, wealth, and retirement business. One of the most high-profile University alumni, Amanda has received many accolades including being named in Forbes’ 2021 Power Women list, which showcases the world’s 100 most influential women.
Dr Kelly Vere MBE, is Director of Technical Strategy at the of University of Nottingham. Technical expertise is critical to the success of UK research, innovation, and higher education – and in turn vital to the growth of the UK economy. Kelly has been a national driving force in bringing this to the fore and leading HE sector wide policy and culture change.