Lioness to receive honorary degree from Derby Uni

Millie Bright, from Derbyshire, is receiving the degree next week

Millie Bright
Author: Oliver MorganPublished 11th Jul 2024
Last updated 11th Jul 2024

One of our region's sporting legends is set to receive an honourary degree from the University of Derby.

Millie Bright started her career with the Killamarsh Dynamos before singing to Chelsea back in 2015.

She's becoming an honorary doctor at a start-studded event next week for her achievements in high performance sport and for being an 'outstanding' role model and ambassador for Derbyshire.

The University of Derby said: "Professional footballer Millie Bright who captained England to the Women’s World Cup Final in 2023 is among those to receive an honorary degree from the University of Derby later this month.

"Born in Derbyshire, Millie first started playing for local team, Killamarsh Dynamos. She signed her professional contract with Chelsea in 2015, winning the 2015, 2018, 2021, 2022 and 2023 FA Women’s Cups.

"Millie was part of the Women’s 2019 World Cup squad, won the UEFA 2022 Women’s Euros, captained the 2023 World Cup squad and became Chelsea captain the same year.

"She will be made an Honorary Doctor of the University of Derby for her achievements in high performance sport and as an outstanding role model and ambassador for Derbyshire.

"Each year notable people with a strong connection to the University or the city and county are chosen to receive an Honorary Degree at the Awards Ceremonies, when the University’s students graduate."

Thousands of graduates, guests and VIPs are expected to attend the ceremonies which take place from 17 to 19 July at Derby Arena.

Other recipients of Honorary Doctorate Degrees this summer are James Stanford, Theresa Peltier DL, Professor Sir Kevan Collins, Captain Harpeet Chandi MBE, whilst a posthumous award will be awarded to Professor Graham Orpwood.

Professor Kathryn Mitchell CBE DL, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Derby, said: “Our Award Ceremonies provide a fantastic opportunity to celebrate this year’s graduates who have showcased commitment to excellence throughout their academic journey.

“I am also delighted to recognise our honorands for their outstanding achievements and dedication to their individual fields.”

First for all the latest news from across the UK every hour on Hits Radio on DAB, at hitsradio.co.uk and on the Rayo app.