The University of Cambridge is set to honour eight inspiring figures, including world-renowned musician Stormzy and decorated Olympian Dame Katherine Grainger, with honorary doctorates.
Stormzy’s Impact Beyond Music
Stormzy, born Michael Ebenezer Kwadjo Omari Owuo Jr, will receive an honorary doctorate in law. The award recognises his contributions to education, music, sport, and literature. In 2018, he launched the Stormzy Scholarship, funding tuition and living expenses for two Black British students annually at Cambridge. The initiative has expanded with HSBC UK’s support, now benefiting 12 students per year. So far, 55 students have received this support, with the largest graduating group set for this year.
Dame Katherine Grainger’s Milestone
Dame Katherine, one of Britain’s most successful female Olympians and the first female chair of the British Olympic Association, will also receive a doctorate in law. She currently serves as chancellor of the University of Glasgow and has won medals in five consecutive Olympic Games.
Other Honourees
- Sir John Rutter, founder and director of the Cambridge Singers, will be awarded a doctorate in music.
- Sir Simon Russell Beale, an acclaimed actor and honorary fellow of Gonville and Caius College, will receive a doctorate in letters.
- Professor Angela Davis, philosopher and activist, is set to be awarded a doctorate in letters.
- Lady Arden of Heswall, former UK Supreme Court justice, will receive a doctorate in law.
- Sir Oliver Hart, Nobel Prize-winning economist, will receive a doctorate in science.
- Professor Maria Leptin, president of the European Research Council, will be honoured with a doctorate in medical science.
Ceremony Details
All eight honourees will be conferred their degrees on 25 June at a ceremony presided over by Cambridge’s vice-chancellor, Professor Deborah Prentice.
The event will celebrate contributions to education, law, music, science, and social activism — recognising those who have changed their fields and inspired others globally.
