This summer we welcomed new Honorary Graduates into our community. We were delighted to have the opportunity of meeting some of them shortly after they received their awards. Below, you can see our fascinating interview with three of those graduates.

They discuss the power of the ‘Hull connection’, the energy of the city, being the first in your family to go to university and what it feels like to address a room full of promise and potential when speaking at a graduation ceremony.

David Byrne, BA Drama 2006, Honorary Doctor of Letters 2024 – ‘I was part of a really big generation here who, like myself, were first in their family to go to University.‘
Between 2010 and 2023 David was Director and founder of New Diorama Theatre, winning many accolades and prizes during that time. One of David’s landmark projects, NDT Broadgate provided a revolutionary free rehearsal space for over 8,800 creatives across a single year and supported the creation of over 250 new shows, creating over 1000 full time jobs.

Louise Cheeseman, Honorary Doctor of the University 2024 – ‘Wherever your careers take you, please tell people about your experiences in Hull – it’s one of the most underrated cities in the UK.’
Louise was born and educated in Hull, leaving school at 16. In 2001, as a single parent, to support her daughters achieve a university education, Louise became one of only a handful of female train crew at Hull Paragon Station. In 2023 she founded (and currently Chairs) Women in Bus and Coach, a national organisation which strives to break down barriers and attract women into the sector.

Sir Tom Phillips, Honorary Doctor of Letters 2024 – ‘I’ve only been here for a day but it’s been like peeling back layers.’
Sir Tom worked in the Department of Health and Social Security from 1977 to 1983 when he joined the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. His diplomatic postings include serving as High Commissioner to Uganda, Ambassador to Israel, and Ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. He has had experience of several conflict situations and served in Washington between 1993 and 1997.