Football heroes among those recognised by university

A North East university is celebrating sporting and civic achievement as it recognises leaders whose work has shaped communities across the region and beyond.

Northumbria University has awarded honorary degrees to seven distinguished figures, including footballing names from both sides of the Tyne-Wear divide, ahead of December’s long-awaited derby. 

The recipients span sport, healthcare, film, education and philanthropy, each chosen for making an exceptional contribution to public life.

Among those honoured were Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe and England international and local hero Dan Burn, who both received the degree of Doctor of Civil Law for their impact at Newcastle United and their wider support for local communities. 

Their leadership has helped cultivate a team culture built on unity, resilience and ambition, while their work with the Newcastle United Foundation continues to influence tens of thousands of people across the North East each year. 

With their club commitments rescheduled at short notice, the pair were presented with their awards at St James’ Park in a special ceremony presided over by Northumbria University’s new chancellor George Clarke.

Eddie Howe, who led Newcastle to their first domestic trophy in 70 years last season, defeating Liverpool 2-1 in the EFL Cup Final, said: “Dan and I were blown away by the gesture and the acknowledgement. 

“It’s an incredible thing and very gratefully received. 

“You never set out to achieve things individually; it's always about the collective, so to be recognised in any way is an amazing thing. 

“I accept this on behalf of our entire coaching team and all the staff working incredibly hard to bring success to Newcastle United.”

Ashington-born and Blyth-raised Dan Burn, who was named North East Football Writers’ Association Personality of the Year and whose towering header set Newcastle on course for victory in the final, added: “It feels surreal to receive this incredible honour – it's a very proud moment for my family, and me. 

“There are always knockbacks in people’s careers, but the important thing is still having the fire to do what you want to do and not let those knockbacks stop you. 

“While I was fortunate to score in the cup final, bringing that trophy to Newcastle was a team effort. 

“This recognition belongs to everyone who made that moment possible.”

TV architect George Clarke, recently appointed chancellor of Northumbria University, added: “I am so proud and honoured to serve as Northumbria’s newly appointed chancellor. 

“My grandad always used to say, ‘knowledge is wealth’ – to keep reading books and keep studying. 

“He understood how much knowledge enriches your life.

“Graduation is such an important celebration for our students, they have achieved so much from their dedication to learning and to improving their lives and the lives of others. 

“It truly is a special experience, congratulations to everyone involved.”

Former Sunderland AFC chairman Sir Bob Murray CBE was also recognised with a Doctor of Civil Law degree. 

His journey from a mining family in Consett to business success and leadership in football reflects the university’s belief in education as a catalyst for opportunity. 

During his tenure at Sunderland, Sir Bob oversaw transformational developments including the Stadium of Light, the Academy of Light and the Foundation of Light, while his philanthropic work has funded scholarships that support students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Sir Bob added: “To be honoured by Northumbria University is a privilege I value enormously. 

“As a former student of Newcastle Polytechnic, this recognition carries real personal significance. 

“The North East shaped who I am, and the education I received here gave me the foundation for my career in business, football, and community work.

“Northumbria’s reputation for ambition, innovation and inclusion mirrors the principles that have guided my life. 

“To be acknowledged by the university where my journey began means a great deal. 

“I hope this award encourages others to aim high, work with integrity and believe in what they can achieve.”

Northumbria University’s winter graduation ceremonies also celebrated leaders whose contributions reach across culture, healthcare and global education. 

Oscar-winning cinematographer Lol Crawley, a Northumbria graduate, was honoured for his acclaimed work on films including The Brutalist, which has earned both Academy Award and BAFTA recognition. 

His artistry has placed him among the most respected visual storytellers in contemporary cinema.

Steph Edusei, chief executive of St Oswald’s Hospice, was recognised for her leadership in healthcare and her sustained commitment to advancing equality and improving outcomes for people across the region. 

Her work has strengthened the hospice sector and championed inclusive care.

Matt Hutnell, formerly director of Santander Universities UK, received an honorary degree for his role in expanding access to education. 

He has led nationwide programmes providing scholarships, internships and enterprise support, helping thousands of students begin careers and businesses that may otherwise have felt out of reach.

Finally, Dr Marios Loukas, dean of the School of Medicine and president of St George’s University, was honoured for his contribution to global medical education. 

His collaboration with Northumbria University has helped deepen international academic partnerships and broaden opportunities for medical students pursuing global careers.

Through its honorary awards, Northumbria University recognises individuals who embody excellence, ambition and service – qualities that reflect the institution’s values and its role within the region. 

This year’s recipients share a commitment to raising aspirations, strengthening communities and championing opportunity, whether through sport, culture, healthcare, business or education.

Professor Andy Long, vice-chancellor and chief executive of Northumbria University, added: “In awarding honorary degrees we look to honour those who have achieved things that align with the University’s mission, activities and our values. 

“An important part of that is their contribution to the University or to the North East.

“We know that our students will be inspired by the work of these exceptional leaders from the sporting, health, cultural, business and medical fields.”

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