THE Nobel Prize-winning South African Archbishop Desmond Tutu heads up the list of people receiving honorary degrees from York St John University this year.

He will receive an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree, alongside the University’s education and theology graduates, in recognition of his incredible contribution to society, at a ceremony at York Minster in November.

Desmond Tutu received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1984 and was the first black South African Archbishop of Cape Town, in South Africa. He rose to worldwide fame in the 1980s as a central figure in the country’s fight against apartheid and has used his high profile to campaign and fight numerous causes including AIDS, tuberculosis, poverty, racism, sexism and homophobia.

He is one of six exceptional individuals being awarded honorary degrees during the graduation ceremonies from November 14-16. He joins poet Ian McMillan, TV talent manager Glynn Ryland, Joseph Rowntree Foundation chief executive Julia Unwin, comedienne Sandi Toksvig and academic, Dr Elizabeth White who will also receive the honour.

Vice Chancellor Prof David Fleming said: “In a year that has seen us grow in student numbers, it is wonderful to have the opportunity to honour and celebrate the contributions made to society by each of these exceptional people.”

Yorkshire poet, broadcaster, commentator and programme maker Ian McMillan will be presented with an Honorary Doctor of Letters degree by the University on Wednesday, November 14, while Glynn Ryland, industry talent manager for Channel 4, will also receive a Doctor of Letters degree on the same day. Julia Unwin, chief executive of Joseph Rowntree Foundation and the Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust, will be presented with a Doctor of Laws degree in recognition of her extensive work in the voluntary sector at the morning ceremony on November 15 and Archbishop Tutu at a ceremony in the afternoon.

On November 16 Danish-born comedian Sandi Toksvig, will be awarded with a Doctor of Letters honorary degree. Sandi has a special connection to York St John University through her daughter, who attended and graduated with a BA Honours in Film and Television Production last year.

Meanwhile, on the same day, Dr Elizabeth White will receive a Doctor of Health Sciences degree. Dr White has been head of research and development at the College of Occupational Therapists since 2002.