University recognises significant contributions to society, healthcare, sports and the arts.

This week, Buckinghamshire New University (BNU) will celebrate the first occasion in its history where all recipients of honorary doctorates are female and, in a series of formal ceremonies, honour their significant contributions to society, healthcare, sports and the arts.   

Honorary doctorates are the highest accolades a university can bestow, and this year’s all-female lineup comprises: 

• Deborah Sturdy CBE for an outstanding contribution to developing nursing provision for older people and people living with dementia, and for her valued support and insight to help shape BNU’s healthcare programmes. 
• Solo artist and former member of Little Mix, Leigh-Anne Pinnock in recognition of her successful musical career and active campaigning for racial equality and anti-racism, especially as co-founder of The Black Fund charity.  
• Nichole McIntosh for her contribution to nursing in London and achievements in championing the benefits of diversity, along with her ongoing support of BNU in securing placement opportunities to boost the skills of BNU’s students.  
• The Countess Howe who as His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Buckinghamshire since June 2020, the first ever woman to hold the office in the county, plays a key role in supporting BNU’s civic engagement work to tackle social, cultural and environmental inequalities.  
• Paralympian Naomi Riches MBE for her work to support improved mental health for young people, for championing adapted and disability sport, and for their commitment to local communities in Buckinghamshire.  
• Lioness Fran Kirby in recognition of her excellent achievements in women’s football and for raising the profile of women’s sport on the international stage since graduating from BNU in 2014/15 with a degree in Applied Sports Coaching Science.  

Vice-Chancellor of BNU, Professor Nick Braisby, said: “We are delighted to bestow honorary doctorates on six inspiring women who have made a significant impact in their careers and can take great pride in their important contributions to society, healthcare, sports and the arts."   

 “I look forward keenly to working with them all in the years ahead as BNU continues to deliver its mission to provide an education for all who can benefit, a commitment that has always been at the heart of our proud 130-year history.” 

 BNU Graduation Week will take place, across several ceremonies held at Wycombe Swan Theatre, from 25-28 July.  

 To watch the live link or replays of BNU’s graduation ceremonies, please click here.