3 June 2008

Benedetti, Kelly among honorary graduands

Internationally acclaimed Scottish violinist Nicola Benedetti and television personality Lorraine Kelly will be among the honorary graduands at the University of Dundee’s graduation ceremonies this summer.

Miss Benedetti will be honoured at the graduation ceremony on July 8th, while Lorraine Kelly, a former Rector of the University, will receive her degree at the afternoon ceremony on June 20th. Both will be awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws.

"Nicola Benedetti epitomises everything we want and hope the young people of Scotland can be - determined, successful, modest and hard working," said Sir Alan Langlands, Principal of the University.

"She is a fantastic role model for our young people, not just in her musical career but also in her work for charities including Unicef."

"Lorraine Kelly of course we know very well. She was an extremely popular Rector, she remains a strong supporter of this University and the city of Dundee, and she is tireless in her work for charity."

"Lorraine has also been a terrific ambassador for several of the major fundraising campaigns we have run in Dundee, particularly those in support of cardiovascular research."

"We very much look forward to welcoming both Nicola and Lorraine to Graduation this summer."

The University has already announced it will be awarding honorary degrees to Dame Vivienne Westwood, author William Boyd, High Court judge Lord Turnbull and journalist Alan Johnston.

The University of Dundee Graduations take place in the Caird Hall in Dundee on June 18th, 19th and 20th, and July 8th.

NOTES TO EDITORS
There will be photo opportunities with all Honorary Graduands on the days of Graduation.

For media enquiries contact:
Roddy Isles
Head, Press Office
University of Dundee
Nethergate Dundee, DD1 4HN
TEL: 01382 384910
E-MAIL: r.isles@dundee.ac.uk