Fabulous five receive honorary degrees from BNU
Leading figures in the worlds of nursing, sustainability, education, Gypsy, Roma and Traveller support, and sport and recreation have received honorary awards from Buckinghamshire New University during graduation celebrations in September and October.
The newly crowned honoraries joined thousands of students in wearing their gowns and mortar boards with pride to make the memorable walk across the stage at the Wycombe Swan theatre in High Wycombe to receive their awards.
Professor Nick Braisby, Vice-Chancellor of BNU, said he was proud to award honorary recognition to individuals for efforts in their fields of expertise and for their commitment to the university and its students.
“Awarding honorary doctorates at our graduation ceremonies is a highlight of the academic year. All five of this year’s recipients have contributed hugely to making the world around us a better place and BNU was proud to recognise them at our graduation ceremonies. We will be eternally grateful for their continued engagement with our university and support for our students, who benefit greatly from our honoraries’ expertise and mentorship.”
Who has received an honorary doctorate?
Lisa Knight MBE has worked in the NHS for more than 30 years and received an MBE in the 2021 New Year’s Honours for her services to nursing during the COVID-19 pandemic. Lisa was appointed as Chief Nurse at London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust (LNWH) in May 2019 and has been very supportive in ensuring LNWH employs as many BNU students as possible on completion of their studies.
Peter Slowe established Projects Abroad in 1992, an international provider of volunteering, internships and meaningful travel experiences, with the aim of increasing graduates’ employability. Twenty-five years later, 128,000 students and graduates have embarked on exciting projects to tackle the world’s social and environmental challenges. He has supported BNU in several international projects, both as a mentor for many students and as project partner relating to the management and efficient use of resources for sustainable growth.
Janie Codona MBE, a BNU graduate and now deserved honorary, has been rewarded for widely respected work on equalities and advocacy for her community as a Romany Gypsy woman. Janie’s only experience of formal education was for six months between the ages of six and seven years old. She has supported and worked with her community for over 30 years and her efforts were rewarded with an MBE for supporting Gypsy, Traveller and Roma women and girls suffering from, or affected by, violence and domestic abuse.
The Rt Hon Earl Howe GBE PC has enjoyed a continuous 30-year career in the House of Lords with his current role being Deputy Leader of the House of Lords. He has been recognised by BNU for his work to combine modern farming methods with conservation; his efforts to engage the public in a better understanding of farming and the countryside; and his commitment to many BNU students, engaging on sustainable land-management projects, alongside continued support for the university.
Howard Wells OBE has spent 46 years in sport and recreation management, and has been chief executive of six different organisations, including the UK Sports Council (now UK Sport), Watford FC, Ipswich FC and the Irish Football Association. Howard has volunteered for various causes, including as an appointed director for the Sport and Recreation Alliance. His life work and contribution to sport was recognised with an OBE in 2013. Howard’s long-standing relationship with BNU has seen him deliver classes and be a valuable mentor to students for more than a decade.