University of Liverpool 2024 honorary graduates announced

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Seven esteemed figures from across business, music, science, and tech have received honorary degrees from the University of Liverpool this week.

Recipients include Professor Dr Shirley J. Thompson OBE, composer for His Majesty the King Charles II’s coronation, and Fazakerley (Liverpool) born tech entrepreneur, Dr Steve Garnett. They join a range of others regarded as leaders in their fields.

The honorary degrees were conferred during a week of ceremonies at the Metropolitan Cathedral, in which nearly 8000 people are graduating.

University of Liverpool Vice-Chancellor Professor Tim Jones said: “I am delighted to formally acknowledge our admiration and recognition of our honorary graduates. From former students to those who have developed a relationship with us in their professional lives, we are honoured to welcome them to the University of Liverpool family. They join us during one of the most important weeks in our calendar, where students and families celebrate many years of hard work and dedication. As well as formally receiving their awards, our honorary recipients shared their experiences, providing graduands with invaluable insights as they embark on the next chapter of their lives.”

University of Liverpool 2024 honorary fellowship and degree recipients are:

  • Professor Dr Shirley J. Thompson, 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.

  • Professor Michael Parkinson CBE was awarded an honorary fellowship. Michael is Honorary Professor at the University of Liverpool and an Ambassador at the Heseltine Institute for Public Policy, Practice and Place. Among his many achievements include advisory and board positions held locally and nationally. He has also published more than 100 books, articles and major reports about cities, urban policy and regeneration.

 

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