Honorary degrees awarded at the University of Bristol – Tuesday, 17 July

Kate Adie with orator David Alder Ede and Ravenscroft

Derek Pretty with orator Professor Eric Thomas, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Bristol Ede and Ravenscroft

Press release issued: 17 July 2012

Bristol University is awarding honorary degrees to Derek Pretty and Kate Adie at today’s degree ceremonies in the Wills Memorial Building.

Well-known broadcaster Kate Adie OBE is to receive a Doctor of Laws to mark her ‘profound contribution to journalism’ in a career which saw her report from war zones around the world.

Her successful career began at BBC Radio Durham and she had a brief spell at BBC Bristol before climbing the ranks to become a national news reporter in 1976. She was the BBC’s chief news correspondent from 1989 until 2003.

Kate now presents From Our Own Correspondent on BBC Radio 4 and has also written four best-selling books.

Former Bristol University Registrar Derek Pretty is being awarded with a Doctor of Laws degree in recognition of the 12 years during which he transformed the business services of the University.

Derek, who retired last year, initially forged his career in retail after gaining qualifications in finance and business whilst at university in both Southampton and the United States.

He’s attributed with modernising how support services at the University of Bristol are run, with financial turnover more than doubling and student numbers increasing by 50 per cent during his 12 years at the University.

An honorary degree is a major accolade, awarded in recognition of outstanding achievement and distinction in a field or activity consonant with the University’s mission.

Further information

The official photographs and speeches delivered by the public orators at each ceremony are available to the media on request from the University's Press Office.

Please contact Philippa Walker for further information.