Durham University is to honour four outstanding individuals whose contributions to sport, defence, community service, and justice have had a transformative impact locally, nationally and internationally.
Honorary degrees will be awarded to Vice Admiral Andrew Burns CB OBE, Sir Bob Murray CBE, Heather Wood, and Yasmin Khan.
They will receive their honours during the University’s Winter Congregation ceremonies at Durham Cathedral from 8 to 9 January 2026, joining hundreds of graduating students in celebration.
Durham University Vice-Chancellor and Warden, Professor Karen O’Brien, said: “Our four honorary graduates have demonstrated exemplary leadership, service and vision.
“Each has shown exceptional commitment to improving lives, whether through transforming communities, advancing national service, or championing equality and inclusion.
“They are inspirational role models for our students and graduates, demonstrating that dedication and courage can change society for the better.”
Vice Admiral Andrew Burns CB OBE – Honorary Doctor of Science
A Durham alumnus and one of the Royal Navy’s most senior officers, Vice Admiral Andrew Burns has served with distinction throughout his career.
Having read Geography at Hatfield College, Andrew rose through the ranks to command ships and international task forces, shaping defence strategy at the highest level. Appointed Fleet Commander in 2021, he became responsible for global naval operations.
He was made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire in 2015 and appointed a Companion of the Order of the Bath in 2021. In early 2025, he returned to Durham University to meet with staff, students and spin-out companies, sharing his insights on leadership, innovation and service.
Sir Bob Murray CBE – Honorary Doctor of Letters
Few individuals have done more to shape the North East than Sir Bob Murray. Through football, education and philanthropy, he has redefined ambition and opportunity across the region.
As Chairman of Sunderland AFC for two decades, Sir Bob oversaw a new era for both club and city, delivering the Stadium of Light and the Academy of Light. His leadership reached the national stage through his instrumental roles in completing Wembley Stadium and creating St George’s Park, the home of England’s national teams.
In 2001, he founded the Foundation of Light, one of the UK’s largest football charities, which now helps more than 40,000 people every year through education, health, employability and community programmes. Sir Bob is also Chancellor of Leeds Beckett University, where he continues to champion access and aspiration in higher education.
Alongside his philanthropic work, he has built successful businesses including Spring Ram, Sterling Capitol, and Omega PLC, driving growth and innovation while creating opportunity for others.
Heather Wood – Honorary Master of Arts
Heather Wood has dedicated her life to serving communities across County Durham and beyond.
During the Miners’ Strike of 1984–85, she founded Women’s Support Groups to provide food and care for affected families. Her commitment to social justice later led to election to Durham County Council, where she championed the interests of older people, the preservation of local heritage, and the protection of public services.
Heather’s creativity and activism have extended to the arts: she has toured plays locally and internationally, assisted filmmaker Ken Loach, and published her autobiography, Just a pit lass in 2023.
Yasmin Khan – Honorary Doctor of Civil Law
Yasmin Khan is the founder and director of the Halo Project, an award-winning charity that supports Black and minoritised victims and survivors of domestic abuse, sexual violence and honour-based abuse.
Since 2011, she has been at the forefront of reform, authoring the first-ever Police Super-complaint to expose institutional failures in investigating sexual abuse within BAME communities.
Her advocacy has led to lasting change. At Durham University, she established the Student Halo Hub to promote student safety and awareness on campus. Nationally, she serves as the Welsh Government’s Adviser on Violence Against Women, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence, and has been an independent panel member for the London Fire Brigade Culture Review, bringing her expertise in organisational transformation and equality to address systemic discrimination.