Joy as three Honorary Doctorates receive awards alongside graduates

Former Huddersfield MP Barry Sheerman, wedding dress designer Kate Halfpenny and the Bishop of Leeds, Right Reverend Nick Baines, have received Honorary Doctorates from the University of Huddersfield, joining hundreds of students at ceremonies on campus throughout Graduation.

Barry, who served as the Member of Parliament for Huddersfield for 45 years until his retirement in 2024, was presented with an award of Doctor of the University in recognition of his outstanding political service and lifelong public commitment to representing the people of Huddersfield.

He spoke with passion about how he has dedicated his life to finding the talent that everybody has inside of them.

He told those graduating that they all have “enormous talent” and the country needed them, with the hard work starting now. He added: “We need you. We need your talent. We need your inspiration. We need your knowledge, but above all, we need your passion.”

Kate, who is behind Halfpenny London, one of the UK’s leading luxury bridalwear brands, received an award of Doctor of the University in recognition of her outstanding contribution to fashion design, creative entrepreneurship, and her continued support for students and education.

She spoke of how her time at the University of Huddersfield provided the inspiration for her future career, describing the institution as “planting the seed of opportunity” in all the ways you can express yourself through garments and clothes. “It was just so eye-opening,” she added.

Nick, who has been the Bishop of Leeds, covering the largest diocese in the Church of England, for a decade, was presented with an award of Doctor of the University in recognition of his outstanding achievements in knowledge generation, ordained and episcopal ministry.

During a speech, he referred to a quote he’d previously used, which he felt was appropriate for today’s graduates: “We are not driven by fear, we’re drawn by hope.”

He described the University as being “drawn to the future” with a focus on innovation, future orientation and excellent leadership.

All three were awarded honorary doctorates at separate ceremonies that took place in the University’s Oastler Building on 14 and 15 July.

Each year, the University of Huddersfield bestows honorary degrees on notable individuals who have attained success and recognition in their chosen field.

For details on how to submit a nomination for a future award, please click here.