Leeds Beckett University has awarded Michelle Carney an Honorary Doctorate

The Leeds Beckett University graduate has enjoyed a diverse career in the UK, USA, Australia and Africa leading grassroots sports partnerships and organisations.

Her passion for sport and business was ignited whilst studying Leisure Studies BA Hons at Leeds Metropolitan University 1991-1994 where she had the opportunity to volunteer with Leeds Sports Development and develop relationships which she still holds today.

Michelle Carney said: “I am shocked and humbled to have been considered worthy of this honorary award from Leeds Beckett University. It shows that no matter your background and whatever your journey, if you follow your passion, focus on making the world a better place and are always your authentic self, amazing things can happen. 

“My career path has been unusual, challenging and exhilarating in equal measure, and to be recognised by the university where I got my undergraduate degree is amazing.

“I am so grateful to everyone involved in conferring this honour and delighted that all graduates can finally celebrate their achievements this year after the pandemic delayed them. I wish all those graduating in 2022 the very best of luck as they embark on their next journeys.”

Michelle has worked on major national and global sporting events and strongly believes in the power of sport to transform lives. She has worked in the commercial sector, professional sport and international sport.

This work includes working as country director for Kick4Life FC, based in Lesotho, Southern Africa which was the world's first football club exclusively dedicated to social change, where she built an innovative social enterprise. She also established Lancashire Cricket Club Foundation as a registered charity in 2011.

Most recently, Michelle spent three years as CEO of Special Olympics Great Britain.

She led the complete transformation of the charity and the development of a new Strategy 'Inclusion in Action' which was launched in June 2021.

Professor Peter Slee, Vice Chancellor of Leeds Beckett University, said: “Michelle has had a tremendously diverse and successful career helping people through sport and we are very proud of her multiple achievements. I’m delighted we are able to welcome Michelle back to recognise her international contribution with this honorary award.”

Michelle founded ‘Purpose Driven Impact Ltd’ in August 2021 and is currently leading the partnership between Sport Relief & 2022 Commonwealth Games, and the future development of Sport Relief to a year-round programme. She is also working with ‘Made by Sport’ to design and lead a major donor fundraising programme to unlock significant investment in the sport for good sector.

The Honorary Doctorate was granted on 20 July as part of the university’s 2022 Graduation ceremonies in the first direct arena in Leeds.