Doctor Who Star Ncuti Gatwa Honored With Honorary Doctorate
The University of Glasgow will bestow honorary doctorates upon Doctor Who actor Ncuti Gatwa and Belle and Sebastian musician Stuart Murdoch during an upcoming ceremony. This event, set for June, will also recognize BBC journalist Sarah Smith and her younger sibling, Baroness Catherine Smith, who serves as the Advocate General for Scotland.
Commemoration of University’s Legacy
A special Commemoration Day ceremony will take place on Wednesday, 17 June, marking the 575th anniversary of the institution’s founding in 1451. This occasion will see the first honorary degrees presented, alongside the summer and winter graduation events.
“Commemoration Day allows us to reflect on our remarkable history,” stated Professor Andy Schofield, the university’s principal and vice chancellor. “Honorary degrees enable us to acknowledge individuals whose accomplishments have made a significant and beneficial mark in their fields and society at large. Their work reflects values that continue to inspire our community. I am pleased to welcome these honorary graduates into the University of Glasgow family at this meaningful milestone and to celebrate them alongside our graduates.”
Gatwa, who portrayed the Doctor in the science fiction series for two seasons, will be awarded a Doctor of the University. Sarah Smith, BBC’s North America editor, will also receive the same honor. Baroness Catherine Smith, a history graduate of the university and Advocate General since 2024, is among the recipients.
Stuart Murdoch, the leader of Belle & Sebastian since the 1990s, will earn a Doctor of Music. Additionally, the university will confer honorary degrees on musicians Deacon Blue and Eddi Reader. Other honorees include Professor Guido Tabellini, who holds a chair in political economics at Bocconi University, and Dr. Stuart Campbell, an emeritus professor of obstetrics and gynaecology at King’s College London.
These accolades highlight the university’s commitment to recognizing contributions across disciplines. The event will celebrate both the honorees and the graduating class, underscoring the institution’s tradition of honoring excellence.
