Seven distinguished individuals receive honorary awards at Kingston University’s summer graduations

Kingston University has bestowed honorary awards on seven distinguished individuals from the worlds of art and design, business and industry, journalism and Formula 1.  

The awards were conferred during the University’s summer graduation ceremonies at Kingston’s Rose Theatre, which saw around 3,000 students graduate in front of their relatives and friends over the course of six days. 

Kingston University confers honorary awards on persons of distinction who will strengthen the University’s mission, enrich the life of the University and provide inspiration to students.  

Do Ho Suh

Internationally renowned artist Do Ho Suh was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Art and Design in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the arts, and for his innovative and inspiring artistic and sculptural practice during a special ceremony at Kingston School of Art’s Stanley Picker Gallery. 

The Korean-born London-based artist, whose work is currently on display in a major survey exhibition at the Tate Modern, constructs site-specific installation and meticulously crafted sculptures that question boundaries of identity and conventional notions of scale and space in both its physical and metaphorical manifestation.  

“My art practice exists within quite a specialised world, so being acknowledged by an institution outside of galleries and museums is something I never really considered. It's a tremendous privilege to receive this award from Kingston University," he said. 

Dr Okechukwu Nzelu

Award-winning author Dr Okechukwu Nzelu was conferred with an honorary doctorate in recognition of his outstanding contribution to literature and reading pleasure. His debut novel, The Private Joys of Nnenna Maloney, was distributed to all staff and students as part of the University’s Big Read in 2021.  

A Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature, Okechukwu’s second novel Here Again Now published in 2022 has been shortlisted for multiple awards.  

“When I got the news my book was going to be selected for the Big Read in 2021, it was an incredible life changing privilege,” he said. “To come back here feels like this wonderful completion of that fantastic experience.” 

Kevin Brennan

Kevin Brennan, an interior design alumnus who graduated in 1989, has worked in the design sector for more than three decades.  

Mr Brennan, who also worked as a part-time lecturer at Kingston University in the 1990s, was made an Honorary Fellow in recognition of his outstanding contribution to 3D design. 

“It’s a great honour,” he said. “Kingston has been dear to me since I graduated here in 1989. I’ve friends here, I’ve taught here so it’s everything for me to get this honour.” 

Dr Young June Park

Dr Young June Park, a distinguished academic and public servant from the Republic of Korea, received an honorary doctorate. The award was in recognition of his outstanding contribution to leadership in global partnerships that drive innovation, industry growth and societal impact.  

A former Vice Minister for Trade and Energy at the Republic of Korea’s Ministry of Knowledge Economy, Dr Park has played a central role in shaping economic policy and advancing cross-border collaboration for more than three decades.  

“Across all regions, I’ve found the same truth: the future belongs to those who can learn, adapt, and lead with empathy,” he said. “That is why I admire Kingston University’s dedication to Future Skills. Knowledge alone is not enough, we also need ethical judgement, creativity, and collaboration. These are the tools that will allow today’s graduates to thrive in a rapidly changing world.” 

Christian McBride MBE

Award-winning business leader, mentor and strategist Christian McBride MBE received an honorary doctorate in recognition of his outstanding contribution to entrepreneurship, sustainability and social impact.  

Founder of technology recycler Genuine Solutions, Christian has worked with the University for 10 years giving students real-world projects to apply their learning. Projects include calculating the environmental effects of mobile devices ending up in landfill and environmental reporting to generate forecasts.  

“We’ve worked on various projects together from impact analysis through to product launches and customer experience. It has been wonderful,” he said. “I’m delighted to have received an honorary doctorate.” 

Clive Myrie

Internationally renowned BBC news reader and presenter Clive Myrie received an honorary doctorate for his outstanding contribution to journalism and cultural life made throughout his career.  

Clive’s memoir, Everything is Everything was selected as Kingston University’s 2024 Big Read title. The book explores his journey from a Bolton teenager with a paper round to an award-winning journalist, reflecting on identity, resilience and the Windrush generation.

“This is an immense honour for me to be linked to this fine university that I already feel very close to,” he said. “It was with great pride that I learnt my memoir Everything is Everything had been chosen for everyone here to read.” 

Bob Bhatti

Kingston alumnus Bob Bhatti received an Honorary Doctor of Engineering award in recognition of his outstanding contribution to motorsport engineering, leadership in driving innovation and support for the next generation of engineers.  

Head of Mechanical Engineering and Design at Formula 1, Bob supports the next generation of engineers through Kingston University’s Industrial Consultative Committee and student mentoring talks.  

“I’m incredibly touched to receive such a great honour. I’ve loved working with the University since I completed my Masters 11 years ago and helping the students realise we are all the makers of the future,” he said. “It's been a privilege to be back here and seeing some of the academics and students I've worked with.” 

Kingston University Vice-Chancellor Professor Steven Spier congratulated the new honorary award recipients and commended the lasting impact their work has made on their respective fields and communities. "The seven recipients embody our values of inclusivity, innovation, ambition and enterprise, alongside a commitment to making a positive difference. We are proud to welcome them into the Kingston University family and look forward to the continued inspiration they deliver to future generations," he said.