Honorary graduate 2018 nomination process

Each year we seek to honour people through the award of Honorary Degrees at our graduation ceremonies. These are individuals who have made a major contribution to academia, our region, their discipline or the University. For those graduating, it is inspirational to hear from Honorary Graduates in their field and for Honorary Graduates the ceremony should be the start of a lasting relationship with the University.

Nominations may be made by University staff, Officers, and Emeritus Professors. Up to five nominations may also be made each by the Student Guild Executive Group and FXU Leadership Team.

The deadline for submissions is Friday 7 April 2017. 

Nominations are particularly welcomed for individuals from diverse backgrounds and from under-represented groups.

Criteria for the Award of an Honorary Degree

1. All nominations must be for candidates who have demonstrated the very highest national or international distinction in their chosen field.
2. There must be clear potential for a lasting relationship with the University.
3. The achievements of the honorary graduate must relate in some way to the University, its values and disciplines.
4. Individuals who have given exceptional service to the University over an extended period of time will also be considered.
5. Nominations are welcomed for individuals who are based in or made an impact on our region. It is important to the University’s mission to make awards to individuals from the region who are able to actively engage with the institution.
6. As a world-class institution with a global reach, nominations for international Honorary Graduates are also encouraged.

Honorary degrees are only awarded in exceptional circumstances to serving members of University Council or people holding party political office in the UK or overseas. Retired University staff are eligible to be considered provided they meet the standard conditions.

The Nomination Process

Decisions on award of honorary degrees are made by Senate and Council. Decisions are not subject to appeal. Nominators must on no account discuss the possible award of an honorary degree with the Candidate prior to an official announcement since this could raise expectations prior to the decision making process. If it is discovered that the Candidate has been approached, we reserve the right to refuse the nomination. If Nominators wish to gather information on the Candidate they should use publicly available sources e.g. Who’s Who, Wikipedia etc.