Liverpool Hope celebrated the class of 2025 at this year’s summer graduations.
Amongst the three-day celebrations a number of honorary doctorates were awarded to individuals making an impact in their field of expertise.
This year recipients include Fergal Keane OBE, a respected journalist and author who spent decades reporting in turbulent regions across the globe and Peter Taylor CBE, for his work in journalism and filmmaking, covering topics including terrorism, political violence and public health.
On the city of Liverpool, Fergal said: “The first thing that struck me is the warmth and friendliness, but especially so on this campus. People are genuinely curious about what I do and are willing to share their own experiences.”
Offering his own words of advice to graduating students, he added: “I would say never give up hope. And that means the legacy of the education you received here, but also your own capacity for believing the world can be made better, because it can. Get involved. Be part of change.”
“The value of education is to meet others, to share your time with other people who will become your friends, perhaps like-minded people, but also people with whom you disagree. It'll teach you the value of civilized disagreement. Knowledge is the route to seeing the world as it really is, not through the lens of ideology or prejudice.”
On his doctorate, Peter shares his pride at the recognition of his work, and the support of those who helped him along the way. “What I’ve tried to do is explain the complexities of conflict to people who find the whole thing mind boggling. It’s recognition of that, which is satisfying and humbling.
“You have to build relationships with people and unless you do that you can never really get beneath the skin of why people do these horrendous things. It’s about understanding that to work out a solution.”
Peter was also recognised earlier this month at a ceremony at Windsor Castle, where he was awarded a CBE by Princess Anne. “To have both of these events bookend the week, I can’t really ask for more. It’s great to be here today, meeting everybody and discussing my work. I would like to acknowledge the Irish Studies research centre whose contribution has been huge. It’s an honour and has been a very welcoming experience.”
Liverpool-native Monsignor John Peter Devine OBE also received recognition for his work as a priest, a role which he has served for 52 years. Peter previously acted as Pro-Chancellor and Chair of Council at Liverpool Hope University.
Peter fondly recalls the institution’s history from teacher training colleges to a degree awarding university 20 years ago. Offering words of advice to graduates, John commented: “Carry on reading. Be selective in the things that you read. Be open rather than closed; nurture those friendships that you have made here at University and keep them going, and maintain contact with the university.”
Professional football manager . Emma will lead the US women’s national team in the World Cup in 2027.