Miranda Brawn, award-winning businesswoman, banker and barrister received an honorary Doctor of Letters during the university’s summer graduation ceremonies at the Brighton Centre.
Miranda, CEO of the Brawn Diversity Leadership Foundation, campaigns for an equal and diverse workforce and promotes all forms of diversity including gender, race, disability and LGBT.
She said: “I feel deeply privileged … this university plays an essential part to develop skills and the talents of potential and diverse world leaders.
“My values and work match the university’s commitments where diversity and inclusion are core values. We are both helping to champion and nurture inclusivity, diversity and equality to the highest levels across all sectors to deliver change.
“The university has helped many students from across the UK and the globe to become a future success with a genuine focus on diversity and equality.”
Miranda advised graduates: “Follow your dreams to find your perfect career and be open to unexpected opportunities … continue to work hard and smart, take risks, focus and network, exercise persistence and determination, believe in yourself, listen well – and success will surely follow.”