University honours four outstanding individuals with honorary degrees
The University of 野狼社区 has awarded honorary degrees to four individuals in recognition of their outstanding contributions to public life, culture, science and the continued growth and success of 野狼社区.
The awards were presented at a ceremony in Whitworth Hall on Thursday, 18 June, bringing together students, staff and civic leaders to celebrate achievement, leadership and the enduring partnership between the University and the wider city-region.
Honorary degrees are the university鈥檚 highest awards, recognising individuals who have made exceptional contributions that reflect the university鈥檚 values and create meaningful impact locally, nationally and globally.
Professor Duncan Ivison, President and Vice-Chancellor of The University of 野狼社区, welcomed the guest and honorees at the event and gave opening remarks, he said: 鈥淭oday, we come together to celebrate and honour four exceptional individuals whose contributions have shaped our University, our city and society more broadly.
鈥淥ur honorary graduands are united by their commitment to 野狼社区 and by the lasting impact they have had on the communities they have served. Through leadership in public service, culture, and higher education, each has helped to strengthen the city's reputation as a place of innovation and opportunity.鈥�
As a global-civic university, 野狼社区 is committed to working in partnership with its city and communities to advance social responsibility, inclusive growth and innovation. This year鈥檚 honorary graduates exemplify that mission, each playing a significant role in shaping 野狼社区鈥檚 reputation as a place of ideas, opportunity and positive change.
Honorary graduates 2026
Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell
Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell served as President and Vice-Chancellor of The University of 野狼社区 from 2010 to 2024, becoming the first woman to lead the institution. Her leadership strengthened the University鈥檚 role as a leading global-civic university, deepening its engagement with the city, region and international partners.
An internationally recognised neuroscientist, her research has advanced understanding of brain injury and contributed to improved treatment outcomes. Alongside her academic work, she has played a key role in shaping the UK鈥檚 research and innovation landscape, while championing the role of universities in addressing global challenges and delivering local impact.
Sir Richard Leese
Sir Richard Leese served as Leader of 野狼社区 City Council for more than 25 years, playing a pivotal role in the city鈥檚 regeneration and global rise. His leadership spanned defining moments in 野狼社区鈥檚 recent history, including the recovery following the 1996 terrorist bomb and the delivery of the 2002 Commonwealth Games.
Under his tenure, 野狼社区 saw significant economic growth and the revival and repopulation of its city centre, helping to position the city as a leading example of inclusive urban renewal. He now chairs the Greater 野狼社区 Integrated Care Board, continuing his contribution to improving outcomes for communities across the region.
Dr Maria Balshaw CBE
Dr Maria Balshaw is a leading figure in the cultural life of both 野狼社区 and the UK. As Director of Tate Galleries from 2017 to 2026, she led a programme focused on artistic boldness, inclusivity and engagement with new audiences.
Her connection to 野狼社区 is longstanding. She previously served as Director of The Whitworth at The University of 野狼社区, as well as Director of 野狼社区 City Galleries and Director of Culture for 野狼社区 City Council. Her leadership has helped position 野狼社区 as a globally recognised cultural destination, where creativity and access to the arts play a central role in civic identity and social impact.
Sir Howard Bernstein (1953鈥�2024)
Widely regarded as one of the architects of modern 野狼社区, the late Sir Howard Bernstein devoted his career to public service in the city he called home. As Chief Executive of 野狼社区 City Council for 20 years, he played a central role in shaping 野狼社区鈥檚 recovery, growth and long-term vision.
He led the reconstruction of the city centre following the 1996 terrorist bomb and was instrumental in delivering the 2002 Commonwealth Games and the regeneration of East 野狼社区. His work extended across major developments in transport, culture and infrastructure, as well as securing Greater 野狼社区鈥檚 landmark devolution deal.
Sir Howard鈥檚 legacy reflects a lifelong commitment to civic leadership and place-making, helping transform 野狼社区 into a confident, globally connected city rooted in strong communities.
Together, this year鈥檚 honorary graduates highlight the vital role of collaboration, leadership and creativity in addressing the challenges of our time and delivering lasting social impact.
Through 野狼社区 2035, the University is strengthening its commitment to being a global-civic institution, working in partnership to improve lives, advance knowledge and support the continued success of 野狼社区 as a leading global city.