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Leeds Beckett University to award Honorary Doctorates to accomplished individuals
The ceremonies will celebrate the successes of students from the class of 2024 with more than 7500 students graduating this July.
- Melanie Brown MBE, known widely as Mel B, is to receive an honorary doctorate on Monday 15 July for services to the city of Leeds. The award recognises her role as a campaigner and advocate for domestic abuse victims, as well as her reputation as a globally recognised music icon and Spice Girl.
- Sylvia Wright OBE is being recognised on Monday 15 July with an honorary doctorate for her service to the International Community. Having taught at Leeds Beckett, Sylvia has spent the last four decades providing healthcare in India through the Sylvia Wright Trust.
- Frances Brody, novelist, playwright and author of the internationally acclaimed Kate Shackleton series is to be awarded an honorary doctorate on Wednesday 17 July. In addition to her success as a novelist, the award acknowledges her ongoing contribution to literary life in the City of Leeds.
- David Lowen, the former Director of Yorkshire Television, is to be awarded an honorary doctorate on Wednesday 17 July after serving as Chair of the Board of Governors at Leeds Beckett for nine years.
- Lioness and Chelsea FC player, Lucy Bronze MBE, is to be awarded for her services to sport on Thursday 18 July. Lucy is an alumna of LBU, having graduated with a degree in Sports Science in 2013.
- Premier League manager, Graham Potter, is being recognised for Services to Sport on Thursday 18 July. Graham has both studied and worked at Leeds Beckett, joining as Manager of the Leeds Carnegie men's team in 2009.
- Parkrun Managing Director and Leeds Beckett alumnus, Tom Williams, is being awarded on Thursday 18 July for his outstanding contribution to amateur sports as a leading figure in the parkrun fitness movement. Tom graduated from Leeds Beckett in 2005 with an MA in Sport and Exercise Science.
Sir Bob Murray CBE, Leeds Beckett University Chancellor, said: "On behalf of Leeds Beckett University, I would like to congratulate these inspirational and distinguished individuals on their achievements.
"The contributions they have made have improved and enhanced the lives of so many others locally, nationally, and globally. Their success acts as an inspiration to this year's graduating students as they set out on their own paths into the world.
"This year's graduates join our global alumni community, showcasing Leeds Beckett's impact and reach as they contribute to positive changes in communities worldwide."
Leeds Beckett University has a thriving alumni community of more than 244,000 former students living in 164 countries.