Doctor Who star Ncuti Gatwa to receive honorary doctorate

Doctor Who Star Ncuti Gatwa to Receive Honorary Doctorate

The University of Glasgow is set to honor Ncuti Gatwa, a prominent actor from Doctor Who, and Stuart Murdoch, the lead singer of Belle & Sebastian, with honorary degrees later this year. The ceremonies will take place in June, coinciding with the university’s 575th anniversary of its founding in 1451.

Among the recipients will be BBC journalist Sarah Smith and her younger sister, Baroness Catherine Smith, who serves as the Advocate General for Scotland. The university highlighted their selection for making “a profound and positive impact within their professions and wider society.” Additional honorees include musicians Deacon Blue and Eddi Reader, with honorary degrees also being awarded during the summer and winter graduation events.

Notable Recipients and Their Contributions

Gatwa, who portrayed the Doctor in the long-running science fiction series for two seasons, will be granted a Doctor of the University title. Sarah Smith, the BBC’s North America editor, will receive the same honor. Baroness Catherine Smith, a Glasgow alumnus with a history degree, has been appointed Advocate General in 2024. She too will be awarded the distinction. Glasgow’s Lord Provost, Jacqueline McLaren, will also join the list of honorary graduates.

Stuart Murdoch, whose career with Belle & Sebastian began in the 1990s, will be honored with a Doctor of Music. Other accolades include a Doctor of Letters for Prof Guido Tabellini, chair in political economics at Bocconi University, and a Doctor of Science for Dr Stuart Campbell, an emeritus professor of obstetrics and gynaecology at King’s College London.

“Commemoration Day allows us to reflect on our remarkable history,” said Prof Andy Schofield, the university’s principal and vice chancellor. “Honorary degrees give us the opportunity to recognize individuals whose achievements have had a profound and positive impact within their professions and wider society. Their work embodies values that continue to inspire our community. I am delighted to welcome our honorary graduates into the University of Glasgow community at such a significant milestone, and to celebrate them alongside our graduating students.”