19 Dec 2017
Renowned space scientist receives Honorary Doctorate from Loughborough University
Space scientist and BBC Sky at Night presenter Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock MBE has been awarded an Honorary Doctorate of the University “in recognition of her contributions to science”.
The degree was conferred upon her by Loughborough University Chancellor Lord Sebastian Coe at yesterday’s winter graduation ceremony, which honoured the achievements of more than 1,100 students.
Maggie's passion is presenting science to a general audience, and she strives to demonstrate that you ‘don’t need a brain the size of a small planet’ to understand, participate in and enjoy the subject.
Maggie has worked on many innovative projects and has also become a successful TV personality. She also conducts ‘Tours of the Universe’ and other public engagement activities, showing school children and adults around the world the wonders of space.
Maggie has won a string of accolades for her work and was awarded an MBE for her services to science and education in 2009.
Back in 2014, the University had the honour of welcoming Maggie to the campus as she delivered the first-ever Claudia Parsons Memorial Lecture. Her talk, titled Women in Science: The Challenge, saw her discuss pioneering women in space science, her own adventures and triumphs and how female representation can be changed across STEM subjects.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Provost and Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Loughborough University Professor Chris Linton said: “Maggie is an outstanding role model, leading the way for future generations of scientists and encouraging audiences to embark on their own journeys in scientific exploration.”
Two Loughborough University Medals were also awarded yesterday to former Director of Sport Development Tim Garfield and Sue Johnson, who worked as an Executive Education Officer in the Loughborough Design School.
Tim was with the University for almost a decade and was the driving force behind numerous concepts such as the SportPark, the Tennis Project, the Coach and Volunteer Academy and the Sport Experience Team. He also played a key role in getting the Olympic Torch Relay to pass through the University campus in 2012.
Sue was an ambassador for placement students both within the Design School and the wider University. Over the years Sue’s role became more challenging, but she worked tirelessly to grow Loughborough’s opportunities while delivering an exceptional level of care to students and staff.
Professor Robert Allison, Vice Chancellor of Loughborough University, said: “It is no secret that the driving force behind the success of Loughborough University is the passionate people that continually devote their time and effort to pushing the institution forwards.
“I am always honoured to be able to present awards that recognise the commitment of individuals.”