Honorary graduates exemplify the highest levels of achievement in their spheres of activity and reflect our inspirational Durham community. They act as a great example to our students as they set out on their own paths into the world.
In the last year, the recipients were:
Winter 2026 recipients:
Yasmin Khan – Doctor of Civil Law
Vice Admiral Andrew Burns OBE, CB – Doctor of Science
Heather Wood – Master of Arts
Sir Bob Murray CBE – Doctor of Letters
Dunelmensis Awards
Dr Tahani Alterkate
Dr Alterkate completed her PhD in SGIA under my supervision as our first al-Sabah Programme Doctoral Fellow and since her graduation a decade ago has been a loyal and supportive advocate of Durham University. She has been heavily involved in the promotion of engagement with our alumni communities in the Gulf and has indeed volunteered herself to manage our alumni affairs in that important part of the world in which we have a considerable alumni community.
She has been instrumental in hosting delegations and meetings at major universities and the leadership of the Kuwait Diplomatic Institute. Dr Alterkate continues to promote the University and has been active in encouraging postgraduate study at Durham. She has actively coordinated her efforts with our IO and academic departments and her continuing support is proving vital in our efforts to deepen our partnerships in the Gulf.
James Riley
James Riley is an exceptional ambassador for the University. His activity has contributed to the key strategic objectives of the University and enhanced the University’s reputation in Hong Kong and beyond.
In 2022 he made a gift to support the redevelopment of the Fellows’ Garden at University College. His generous support has enabled the Fellows’ Garden to be accessed by a wider audience. It will be used to stage performances and as an open space accessible by students across the institution. James regularly visits Durham to celebrate achievement, including the opening of the Fellows’ Garden in October 2025.
James has over 30 years of experience as a key figure in senior management of the Jardine Matheson Group and CEO of Mandarin Oriental Hotels Group. He is committed to sustaining and enhancing connections with Durham’s alumni community in Hong Kong and around the world.
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