Mother of murdered Lincoln graduate receives honorary doctorate from University of Lincoln

The mother of Grace Millane, who was killed whilst backpacking, has been honoured by her daughter’s university.

Grace died in December 2018 whilst backpacking in New Zealand after finishing her degree at the University of Lincoln.

Gillian Millane has now been given an honorary doctorate from the University of Lincoln for her charitable work to end violence against women and girls, BBC reports. 

Grace, from Wickford, Essex, died on the eve of her 22nd birthday.

via SWNS

Since her death, Grace’s mother has since climbed Mount Everest in her memory, as well as campaign for charities which aim to end male violence against women.

On receiving the honorary doctorate, Gillian said she felt “deep gratitude” being honoured by her daughter’s university.

Gillian said: “I am so deeply proud. I was in total shock and disbelief when I found out. All my memories here are happy memories. Grace loved her time here”.

via SWNS

After Grace’s death, her mother and her cousin Hannah O’Callaghan founded the charity initiative Love Grace, which helps domestic abuse victims.

Inspired by Grace’s love of handbags, the charity collects donated handbags and fills the with toiletries to gift to survivors.

Gillian also works closely with the White Ribbon charity, which aims to end male violence against women, and was made an OBE last year.

via SWNS

In a speech she gave to other graduates, Gillian urged them to use their voices and lift up other people.

“Standing here, I feel the power of family, community and the enduring light of Grace’s spirit,” she told them.

Most Read

Three guys who have slept with Bonnie Blue reveal what it’s like, in explicit detail

Woman ‘identified’ as ‘Phillies Karen’ responds after viral fight video over home run ball

ANOTHER woman has now been ‘identified’ as the ‘Phillies Karen’ and I can’t keep up

“Use your voice, your empathy and your knowledge to make a difference – however big or small – in the lives of those around you.”

If you feel affected by this story, please speak to someone or contact Samaritans on 116 123 at any time. You can contact Anxiety UK on 03444 775 774, Mind on 0300 123 3393, and Calm (Campaign against living miserably, for men aged 15 to 35) on 0800 58 58 58.

Featured image via SWNS