The University of Law (ULaw) has proudly awarded three Honorary Doctorates during its November graduation ceremonies to Lord Timpson OBE, Minister of State for Prisons, Probation, and Reducing Reoffending; Frances Gibb, distinguished legal journalist; and Trevor Sterling, esteemed senior partner and social mobility advocate. These honours celebrate their exceptional contributions to law, justice, and social reform.
Lord Timpson OBE, appointed as Minister of State for Prisons, Probation, and Reducing Reoffending in July 2024, received his Honorary Doctorate in recognition of his profound impact on prisoner rehabilitation. Formerly Chief Executive of Timpson Ltd, he pioneered initiatives to secure employment opportunities for ex-offenders, playing a critical role in prisoner reform across the UK.
As Chair of the Prison Reform Trust and National Chair of the Employment Advisory Board, Lord Timpson has closely collaborated with the Ministry of Justice and the New Futures Network, advocating for employment pathways as a means of reducing reoffending.
Commenting on his Honorary Doctorate, Lord Timpson said: “It is a great honour to have been invited to receive this degree, and to be associated with such a prestigious and important institution as The University of Law. I have learnt over the years that while prisons can be desperate places, they can also be places of hope, kindness and second chances. I know that the University’s work helps inspire students to share the same ambitions.”
Prominent legal journalist Frances Gibb also receives an Honorary Doctorate from the University, in recognition of her journalistic career that has spanned more than three decades.
Beginning her career with Visnews, Frances later became a respected voice in legal journalism, serving as the Legal Editor of The Times and covering critical developments in legal affairs. In all she covered legal affairs for the newspaper for more than 30 years before leaving in 2019 to focus on freelance writing.
Frances comments: “I am absolutely delighted and honoured to be receiving this honorary award - and feel privileged that my work and career has been recognised by the University. I am glad to have contributed to opening up the law and exposing some of its obscure corners to public scrutiny.”
Trevor Sterling, one of the UK’s most accomplished lawyers and a trailblazer for social mobility, was awarded an Honorary Doctorate for his commitment to legal excellence and diversity. As the first Black senior partner in a top 100 law firm, Trevor’s career is marked by a dedication to fostering inclusion and elevating others within the profession.
At Moore Barlow, Trevor founded a Major Trauma Service that prioritises rehabilitation, and he actively contributes to the firm’s initiatives on Diversity and Inclusion. His influential career includes notable cases, such as the landmark House of Lords decision in Corr v IBC Vehicles Ltd., a case that set a precedent in employer liability law.
Reflecting on the award, Trevor stated: “I am truly honoured to receive an Honorary Doctorate in law from The University of Law for my achievements, particularly for promoting social mobility in the legal profession. I have a mantra which is “Do not just aspire to climb the ladder, be the ladder.” My aim will be to use this honour to give belief to others that the ordinary can achieve the extraordinary with the right mindset.”
Professor Andrea Nollent, Vice-Chancellor and CEO at ULaw, adds: “It is our privilege to recognise these industry pioneers, whose careers exemplify our university’s commitment to justice, integrity and positive societal impact. Lord Timpson, Frances Gibb, and Trevor Sterling have each made extraordinary contributions to the fields of law and criminal justice, and their achievements will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of legal and business professionals.”