News / Carol Vorderman
Cultural luminary given honorary doctorate
Carol Vorderman, the celebrated broadcaster, writer, and cultural figure, has been awarded an honorary doctorate by UWE Bristol.
Vorderman received the honour in recognition of her contributions to broadcasting, education, and her tireless efforts to inspire young people, particularly women, to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
The Bristol-based broadcaster received the honorary degree during the autumn graduation ceremonies held at Bristol Beacon on Wednesday.
is needed now More than ever
She was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Science for “leading by example, speaking truth to power, and using her voice to highlight causes close to her heart.”
Carol Vorderman received the honour in recognition of her contributions to broadcasting, education, and her tireless efforts to inspire young people – photo: Milan Perera
A trailblazer from a young age, Vorderman’s journey began in North Wales, where she grew up in a single-parent household and overcame the challenges of poverty.
Her academic talent led her to become the first person from North Wales to be accepted into the University of Cambridge at just 17 years old, setting the stage for a remarkable career.
Vorderman’s passion for mathematics propelled her into the national spotlight. In 1982, she began her role as a presenter on Countdown, which cemented her status as one of Britain’s most beloved TV personalities.
Beyond her television career, Carol Vorderman has worked relentlessly to promote STEM education, particularly among young women and underrepresented groups.
Her online coaching courses, which helped half a million children during the pandemic lockdown, and her funding of bursaries for aspiring mathematics students, are just a few examples of her commitment to making learning accessible to all.
In her acceptance speech, Vorderman reflected on the personal significance of receiving the honorary degree from UWE, a university that has played an important role in her family’s life.
She shared a heartfelt tribute to her son, Cameron, who has special needs and graduated from UWE with a first-class degree after two years at Filton College. “UWE gave him a chance, and it lifted him,” Vorderman said.
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Having made Bristol her home for nearly 20 years, Vorderman also expressed her admiration for the city and its vibrant student community.
Known for her political activism, she has used her platform to address a wide range of issues, from environmental awareness to mental health and social justice – causes that sometimes landed her in hot water.
Her 2000 MBE award and her recent book Now What? On a Mission to Fix Broken Britain underscore her commitment to using her voice for positive change.
The much-loved cultural figure’s honorary degree citation reads: “Carol Vorderman has spent decades in the public eye as a television and radio presenter, author, and champion of maths and engineering. She has worked tirelessly to break down barriers that prevent young women from studying STEM subjects.”
A great night at the Clifton Literary Festival (next to THAT suspension bridge ?) with @chrisgpackham.bsky.social
Lots of debate
Lots of support
Lots of laughter ??Raising money for the Clifton Library
Love Bristol ?? pic.twitter.com/Zsb8KPzHey— Carol Vorderman (@carolvorders) November 16, 2024
In closing, Vorderman expressed her hope for the future, highlighting the promise of the younger generation. She said: “They are more tolerant, kinder, more curious, and more creative than my generation was brought up to be.
“It was a delight to be among so many of that younger generation today. Thank you, UWE. I feel humbled.”
Main photo: UWE Bristol
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