A SKA music legend has been honoured by Coventry University in recognition of her support towards the city’s music scene.
Pauline Black received an honorary degree following a career that has seen her create platinum-selling albums and an award-winning autobiography.
Originally from Essex, the lead singer of The Selecter was presented with the degree at a graduation ceremony on Wednesday, November 23, in the shadows of Coventry Cathedral.
The 61-year-old was among 6,000 undergraduate and postgraduate students receiving their degrees across the week. Pauline said: “I’m really proud of being associated with Coventry and was humbled when it was suggested I would receive this degree.
“I’m committed to the city, especially the 2021 City of Culture bid and will do all I can to make that happen.
“Still being in the business and making it work is great – particularly for women.
“It’s really important that women don’t reach the menopause and go away and knit.”
Former CEO of Jaguar Land Rover and Ford Europe, Joseph Greenwell, also returned to the city where he launched his automotive career to become an honorary doctor of business.
Nuclear industry boss Alan Coley, Jordanian telecommunications chief Ahmed Hanandeh and rector and vice chancellor of South Africa’s Stellenbosch University, Professor Willem de Villiers also received honours.
John Latham, vice-chancellor of Coventry University, said: “We’re delighted to recognise the hard work and dedication these exceptional individuals have made in their chosen fields.
“They’re an inspiration to our students and graduates.
“It was a pleasure to welcome them to our graduation ceremonies.
“Our honorary graduates joined the Coventry community along with our graduating students who we are proud to pay tribute to for the completion of their studies before they move to the next stage of their lives.”
