University honour for Marketing Derby chief
Marketing Derby managing director John Forkin is to receive an honorary degree from the University of Derby next week.
The Honorary Doctor of Bondholder award will be made in recognition of his work to attract investors to the city for more than a decade and Marketing Derby’s efforts to generate investment and development in the city for over 12 years, contributing to the creation of more than 4600 jobs.
Forkin said: “To be honest, I was totally surprised but also equally delighted to be offered the award. So many people have contributed to the development of the city and the university and it’s a genuine honour to be considered.
“Derby is a city of innovation in ideas and making and I’m keen to support our continued evolution as an attractive location in which to live, work or visit.”
He is one of six people from Derbyshire to be honoured by the University of Derby this month. Also receiving honorary degrees are:
Chris Shrigley, one of the creators of the Tomb Raider franchise and its heroine Lara Croft;
Andy Sneap, a rock music producer who has worked with some of the world’s top heavy metal bands, such as UK veteran rockers Judas Priest;
Judy Leden MBE, who runs a flying school in Ashbourne and is being honoured for her pursuit of excellence in hang-gliding and her promotion of the sport;
Brian Jones, who since 2006 has been chief executive of the SENAD group, which has developed educational programmes for children and adults with a variety of special educational needs;
Chris Hughes, former chair of the University’s Governing Council, who will be honoured for his work to promote the growth of the University and the wellbeing of its staff and students over the past 17 years.
The six will receive their honorary degrees at ceremonies taking place at Bondholder Derby Arena on 17-19 July.
Professor Kath Mitchell, vice-chancellor of the university, said: “It is wonderful to be able to celebrate the work of six people from our city and county who have excelled in their very diverse fields and had such a positive impact on so many people’s lives.
“They each exemplify the values of boldness and brilliance to which we encourage our students to aspire, in order to achieve success in their careers and lives.
