Leading figures who have made an impact in the media, the world of business and architecture were recognised at Northumbria University, Newcastle’s Winter Congregation Ceremonies last month.
Award-winning journalist Jeremy Paxman, presenter and comedian Alexander Armstrong, architect and presenter George Clarke and director of Emirates airline Sir Timothy Clarke all received honorary doctorates during the December graduation ceremonies.
Jeremy Paxman is best known for his role as anchor of Newsnight - a post he held for 25 years. During this time, he became renowned for his tough interviewing of politicians and public figures, attracting wide acclaim and several awards. He has also been the chairman of University Challenge since 1994 and is the author of numerous documentaries and books on a range of topics, including the history of the British Empire, the Royal Family and the First World War.
Alexander Armstrong returns to his Northern roots to receive his honorary doctorate. The well-known presenter and comedian is a great advocate of arts in the North East and became President of The Literary and Philosophical Society in 2011. Known by some as one half of the comedy duo Armstrong and Miller, he now presents the popular BBC quiz show Pointless.
George Clarke is Channel 4’s face of architecture and is best-known for his work on The Home Show, Restoration Man and George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces. He is the creative director of George Clarke & Partners, with a reputation for designing and building high-quality, award-winning projects in the UK and internationally. George is passionate about the way architecture can transform lives and it is his aim to make architecture popular and accessible to everyone.
Sir Timothy Clark has been President of Emirates airline since 2003, during which time he has transformed the airline from a one-route carrier operating off a dusty runway to a world leader serving more than 120 destinations. He is also a Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society and the Chairman of the Emirates Airline Foundation, a non-profit charity that he helped found which provides humanitarian, philanthropic aid and services for children in need around the world.
The recipients of honorary degrees are nominated by the University’s staff for their achievements, their links to the University - and for their sheer inspirational qualities.
