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University honours city's 'incredible' role models

LJMU The ten honorary fellows at St George's Hall, LiverpoolLJMU
The honorary fellowships have been awarded as part of the university's bicentenary celebrations

Ten celebrated figures have been awarded honorary fellowships by Liverpool John Moores University.

The fellows have been recognised for their impact on the city as part of the institution's bicentenary celebrations.

Those honoured hail from a range of industries including sport, the arts and media, the public sector, engineering, tourism and the judiciary.

University chancellor Nisha Katona said the fellows are "incredible role models" for students.

Those recognised are:

  • Nikita Parris, professional footballer, UEFA Euro 2022 winner
  • Ngunan Adamu, BBC Radio Merseyside journalist, producer, presenter
  • Bryan Biggs, director of cultural legacies at the Bluecoat
  • Andy Cooke, HM Chief Inspector of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services
  • Professor Joe Rafferty CBE, chief executive of Mersey Care
  • Trish Bennett, deputy chief executive and chief nurse, Mersey Care
  • Louise Shepherd, chief executive of Alder Hey Children's Hospital
  • Louisa Flitter, civil engineering senior project manager, Environment Agency
  • Judge Sarah Wright, Sheffield Combined Court
  • Jamie Christon, chief executive of Chester Zoo

In a ceremony at St George's Hall Ms Katona told the new fellows they represent all that students "can aspire to and hope to be".

BBC Radio Merseyside presenter Ngunan Adamu said she was "delighted" she hoped to be a role model to young people who might not think university is for them, adding "hard word does pay off".

Vice-chancellor Mark Power said: "Our fellows are drawn from all walks of life but they have one thing in common - they understand and embrace our ethos, they share our values and our ambitions, and they have a truly meaningful connection to the university.

"Each of the 10 distinguished individuals is already part of our family and I hope with this formal recognition of a fellowship we are not only commemorating their own connection with us but also embracing a commitment to working together in the future."

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