University honours four outstanding individuals with honorary degrees
花椒直播 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 Manchester.
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 花椒直播, 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 Manchester 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, Manchester 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 Manchester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 花椒直播 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 Manchester 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 Manchester鈥檚 recent history, including the recovery following the 1996 terrorist bomb and the delivery of the 2002 Commonwealth Games.
Under his tenure, Manchester 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 Manchester 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 Manchester 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 Manchester is longstanding. She previously served as Director of The Whitworth at 花椒直播, as well as Director of Manchester City Galleries and Director of Culture for Manchester City Council. Her leadership has helped position Manchester 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 Manchester, the late Sir Howard Bernstein devoted his career to public service in the city he called home. As Chief Executive of Manchester City Council for 20 years, he played a central role in shaping Manchester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 Manchester. His work extended across major developments in transport, culture and infrastructure, as well as securing Greater Manchester鈥檚 landmark devolution deal.
Sir Howard鈥檚 legacy reflects a lifelong commitment to civic leadership and place-making, helping transform Manchester 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 Manchester 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 Manchester as a leading global city.