Fashion designer Paul Smith receives honorary degree from Uni of Nottingham

“As a young man living in Beeston and working in Nottingham, I would cycle by University Boulevard every day,” he said in a speech addressed to the graduates.

“The image of the original university building is etched into my memory and I can recall my father, who was born and raised in Nottingham, showing me photos of it being constructed.

“It’s a city I’m immensely proud to say I was born in. It’s with great pleasure and gratitude that I receive this honorary degree, thank you very much.”

The degree was given to Smith as a thank you from the university for his collaboration and support. He released the Paul Smith for the University of Nottingham Collection last year, to raise the city’s profile as one “of creativity, innovation and global connections after the pandemic”.

Sir Paul’s brand, established in 1970, has over 3,000 retail stores and is sold in more than 70 countries. Of its 1,200 employees, over a third are based in the brand’s Nottingham headquarters.

Featured image via University of Nottingham.

Related articles recommended by this author

• Former footballer Jermaine Jenas set to receive honorary degree from Nottingham Trent

• University of Nottingham receives £5million funding to help reach net zero target

• DemilitariseUON protestors removed from Uni of Nottingham building by bailiffs