Honorary graduates 2021

Nominations for 2021 are now closed. Nominations will reopen in Spring 2021 to nominate Honorary Graduates for 2022.

Honorary degrees are often awarded to individuals with a connection to our University and the wider community of Exeter, who can provide an inspiring example to our graduating students.

Each year we seek to honour inspiring people in this way, providing a basis for the development of a lasting relationship with the University. Some return to offer guest lectures, while others support the University in different ways. All our honorary graduates share our passion for education and research, and exemplify our values. They will play an important role as ambassadors of our University, and their influence supports our collective mission, to make the exceptional happen.

Our honorary graduates receive their awards at one of our summer or winter graduation ceremonies, becoming part of the Exeter community and sharing in our success going forward.

Do you know someone who has made a major contribution to the world of academia, made an impact on our region, or made a significant national or international contribution within their field?

If your nomination is chosen and accepted, you will be invited to attend the graduation lunch with members of VCEG and our honorary graduates, with an opportunity to meet your nominee. You can make your nomination in early 2021 - who will you choose?

How do I make a nomination?

Nominations can be made by all staff, officers and Emeritus Professors. Nominations can also be made by the Student Guild Executive Group and FXU leadership team to reflect the views of our student representatives.

All valid nominations will be considered and are particularly welcomed for individuals from diverse backgrounds and from under-represented groups. Final decisions are made by Senate and Council.

Criteria for the award of an Honorary Degree:

All nominations must be for candidates who have demonstrated the very highest national or international distinction in their chosen field.
There must be clear potential for a lasting relationship with the University.
The achievements of the honorary graduate must relate in some way to the University, its values, disciplines, or have directly inspired our University community.
Nominations are welcomed for individuals who reflect the diversity of our community and our ambition to be a global, diverse and inclusive institution.
Individuals who have given exceptional service to the University over an extended period of time will also be considered.
Nominations are welcomed for individuals who are based in or who have 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.
As a world-class institution with a global reach, nominations for international Honorary Graduates are also encouraged.

Retired staff from the University are eligible for nomination providing they meet the above criteria. Serving members of the University Council or people holding party political office in the UK or overseas, will only be awarded in exceptional circumstances.

To help your decision, you can read all about our previous honorary graduates.