Honorary Degrees Committee

To ensure that there is diversity from under-represented groups amongst our Honorary Graduates, we welcome suggestions for Honorary Degrees from across the University community, including from individual members of staff or students, our staff networks, or through Faculty and School Executive Boards.

Before submitting a nomination

The following guidelines should be taken into account regarding the type of people the Committee will consider for an Honorary Degree.

• Individuals of the highest international or national standing from within their field and often beyond, with a genuine level of distinction. 
• It is expected that those who receive Honorary Degrees should exemplify in some way the University's values. The reputation and profile of Honorary Graduates should resonate with those of the University and provide an inspiring example, especially to graduating students.
• Outstanding individuals whose association in name with the University will be mutually beneficial.

We wish to honour individuals with the highest levels of achievements. Whilst a demonstrable personal connection with Sheffield and its region is considered (such as alumni or members from the Sheffield City region), we encourage nominations on an international scale where there may not currently be a relationship but where there is the potential to build a valuable relationship.

The object of awarding Honorary Degrees is essentially to bring people into the University community who can become our ambassadors and are of a level of distinction and standing that can drive our reputation.

• Current staff will only be considered in exceptional circumstances, for example if a member of staff has received external recognition for achievements unrelated to their University role.
• Consideration may be given to former/retired members of staff who demonstrate service or distinction far beyond the usual remit of their post or who have served the University in other ways, or have achieved distinction in areas unrelated to their University role.
• Serving politicians or those in a current political role will not be considered.
• There is no upper or lower age limit. Emphasis will be placed on the height of achievement rather than its length.
• Nominations in respect of individuals considered by the Honorary Degrees Committee in the preceding three academic years will not be eligible for consideration, except at the invitation of the Committee.
• A list of those who have previously been awarded Honorary and Ex-Officio Degrees is published in the University Calendar.

Honorary Degrees shall be conferred after approval by the Honorary Degrees Committee, a Joint Committee of Senate and Council. Suggestions and nominations for Honorary Degrees will be considered annually by the Committee at its meeting in March.

The University reserves the right to withdraw an Honorary or Ex-Officio Degree in the event that an Honorary or Ex-Officio Graduate, through behaviour or actions subsequent to his or her award, brings the University into disrepute.

The decision to withdraw a Degree rests ultimately with the Council, acting on the recommendation of the Honorary Degrees Committee and after report from the Senate.

NB: Those completing the nomination form are reminded not to inform the nominee that they have been nominated for an Honorary Degree. Nominators will also be expected to assist the orators with the oration, should the nomination be successful.

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Downloads

Terms of Reference and Membership of the Honorary Degrees Committee (Google doc)