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The University of Ulster will honour the inspirational achievements of 13 key personalities from the worlds of sport, the arts, public life, business and education, at its summer graduations.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Richard Barnett said: “ Ulster is recognised equally for its world class sporting achievements, cultural excellence and significant contribution to industry, healthcare and education.

“It is important that we not only produce talented graduates, but that we equip them with the confidence and ambition to focus on, and achieve, excellence.

“The honorary degree recipients this year embody the very qualities that I know will inspire Ulster’s students to aim high, and realise the power they have to make a positive difference in their future lives and careers.”

University of Ulster Honorary Graduates July 2014:

Gary Anderson , the motorsport commentator, will receive the honorary degree of Doctor of Science (DSc.) for his outstanding contribution to motorsport.

Tommy Bowe, the Ulster and Irish international rugby player – and Ulster alumnus –will receive the honorary degree of Doctor of Science (DSc.) for his outstanding contribution to sport.

Frank Cottrell Boyce, the screenwriter and novelist, will receive the honorary degree of Doctor of Letters (DLitt) for his outstanding contribution to writing.

Evelyn Collins , Chief Executive of the Equality Commission, will receive the honorary degree of Doctor of Laws (LLD), for her outstanding contribution to the promotion of equality and good relations.

Roma Downey , the actress and film producer, will receive the honorary degree of Doctor of Fine Art (DFA) for her outstanding contribution to acting and philanthropy.

Nick Hewer , the business analyst and media commentator will receive the honorary degree of Doctor of Science (DSc.) for his outstanding contribution to business development.

Lord Justice Brian Kerr will receive the honorary degree of Doctor of Laws (LLD) for his outstanding contribution to the legal profession.

Nicky Kinnaird, the prominent businesswoman and founder of the Space:NK chain will receive the honorary degree of Doctor of Science (DSc.) for her outstanding contribution to entrepreneurship.

AP McCoy , the champion Jockey will receive the honorary degree of Doctor of Science (DSc.) for his outstanding contribution to sport.

Seamus McGarvey , the Oscar-nominated cinematographer will receive the honorary degree of Doctor of Fine Art (DFA) for his outstanding contribution to film-making, contemporary art and cinematography.

Peter McNaney , Chief Executive, Belfast City Council, will receive the honorary degree of Doctor of Laws (LLD) for his outstanding contribution to civic leadership.

Christopher Moran , Chairman of Co-Operation Ireland will receive the honorary degree of Doctor of Laws for his outstanding contribution to civic leadership.

Margaret Ward , former Director of the Women’s Resource & Development Agency, will receive the honorary degree of Doctor of Laws (LLD) for her outstanding contribution to advancing women’s equality.

The University of Ulster’s summer graduation ceremonies will take place on 30 June -1 July at the Coleraine campus, 2-4 July at Belfast’s Waterfront Hall and on 7-8 July at the Millennium Forum, Derry~Londonderry.