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Strathclyde honours seven distinguished figures

Seven outstanding public figures have received recognition from the University of Strathclyde during its autumn graduations. 

The title of Emeritus Principal and Vice-Chancellor was conferred on Professor Sir Jim McDonald GBE, who retired in August 2025 after leading Strathclyde for 16-and-a-half years. This was in recognition of his outstanding service and contribution to the University. 

The awards also included a posthumous degree for the late Professor Peter Boyle, who died in 2022, for his outstanding contributions to global cancer control and public health policy.  

Honorary degrees were also presented to: 

  • Professor Lady Sue Black, Baroness Black of Strome, President, St John's College, University of Oxford 
  • Professor Nancy Ip, President, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) 
  • Professor Gong Qihuang, President, Peking University, Beijing 
  • Professor Dame Lynn Gladden DBE FRS, Shell Professor of Chemical Engineering, University of Cambridge   
  • Rachel Corsie, former professional footballer. 

Week of ceremonies

The recipients joined around 2,000 students who are being awarded their degrees at the University’s Barony Hall, at a week-long series of graduation ceremonies. 

Strathclyde Principal & Vice-Chancellor Professor Stephen McArthur said:

Our graduation ceremonies are always a time to celebrate the hard work, dedication and achievements of our new graduates, as they embark on their careers. Their Strathclyde education equips them with the knowledge and skills to be successful in their chosen field. 

“Graduations are also a time to recognise people who have proved themselves to be among the best in their chosen profession. They show our graduates that they can aspire to great heights and build on what they have already accomplished here.

“We are giving particular recognition to our late colleague, Professor Peter Boyle, who was an internationally renowned leader in the fight against cancer and brought clarity and focus to this urgent mission. It has been a pleasure to welcome his family to our graduations.”