Honorary Graduates 2011

Sir Alan Ayckbourn – Doctor of Letters (honoris causa)

Sir Alan Ayckbourn is an Olivier, Tony and Moliere Award winning playwright. He has written 75 plays, many of which have run in the West End and on Broadway following first performances at the Stephen Joseph Theatre in Scarborough, where he was Artistic Director between 1972 and 2009. Sir Alan’s award is in recognition of his enormous contribution to the Arts.
Marc Bolland Marc Bolland – Doctor of Business Administration (honoris causa)
Marc Bolland is CEO of Marks and Spencer. He began his career at Heineken NV in The Netherlands in 1987 occupying many varied management roles, before becoming Chief Operating Officer in 2005. Following this, Marc was CEO at Morrisons for four years, where he is credited with a major role in driving forward sales and repositioning the Morrisons brand. Marc joined Marks and Spencer in 2010. His award is in recognition of his outstanding contribution to business.

Hendre Fourie – Doctor of Health Sciences (honoris causa)

Hendre Fourie is a professional Rugby Union player. Before signing for Sale, Hendre was based at Leeds Carnegie between 2007-2011. He has seven caps for England and was called up to the 2011 World Cup squad in New Zealand. Hendre’s award is in recognition of his committed contribution to sport both in the UK and in his birthplace of South Africa.

Alan Rayment – Doctor of Health Sciences (honoris causa)

Alan Rayment is a Paratriathlete. Alan had both legs amputated in 1997 due to leg ulcers and MRSA and has been in a wheelchair ever since. Amongst his many achievements, the former truck driver has completed the London Marathon, Great North Run and hand cycled from Lands End to John O Groats. He is a Recreation Duty Officer at North Lindsey College and is also a fitness instructor. Alan’s award is in recognition of his enormous contribution to sport. 

Mike Tomlinson – Doctor of Health Sciences (honoris causa)

Mike Tomlinson continued the fundraising work of The Jane Tomlinson Appeal, which Jane set up to help children's and cancer charities across Yorkshire, the UK and beyond. The appeal has raised £3 million to date and is on target to raise £5 million. Mike’s award is in recognition of his outstanding contribution to fundraising.

Howard Webb MBE – Doctor of Health Sciences (honoris causa)

Howard Webb is Premiership and International Football Referee. Howard is an accomplished referee and is commended for his work in football officiating for being the first man to referee the UEFA Champions League final and the FIFA World Cup final in the same year. He is also a police sergeant for South Yorkshire Police. Howard’s award is in recognition of his huge contribution to sport.