University of Warwick to award honorary degrees to leading figures in medicine, the arts, and industry
The University of Warwick will award honorary degrees this January to individuals whose work has made a lasting impact in medicine, the arts, and industry.
From pioneering leadership in healthcare and the automotive sector to innovation and creativity in television, film, and poetry, these distinguished graduates have shaped their fields and widened opportunities for others, inspiring the next generation as the University celebrates excellence, creativity, and impact across all disciplines.
Honorary Graduates: Winter 2026
Bisha K. Ali
Bisha K. Ali (BSc Economics, University of Warwick, 2007–2010) is a showrunner and writer, known for her work on the acclaimed sixth series of Netflix’s Black Mirror and its final episode Demon 79. She previously show ran Ms Marvel for Disney+, starring Iman Vellani as the MCU’s first Muslim superhero, earning a Gracie Award and a Golden Tomato Award.
Bisha has also written for Loki, Sex Education, and Four Weddings & a Funeral, and served as consultant producer on The Baby for HBO & Sky. She champions underrepresented voices in the industry, running her own fellowship scheme with Netflix and Sky to support diverse talent and help emerging creatives build sustainable careers in film and television.
John Bernard
John Bernard, Coventry Poet Laureate 2023-2025, is a spoken word performer of East African heritage whose work blends storytelling, emotion, and social insight. He is a respected figure in the UK poetry scene and leads creative workshops empowering young people to find their voices through poetry and music. His community engagement extends beyond performances, reflecting his dedication to nurturing artistic talent across Coventry.
Bernard’s poetry has been featured in national festivals and publications, and he frequently collaborates with local organisations to use the arts as a tool for social change.
Linda Jackson
Linda Jackson (MBA, University of Warwick, 1990–1994) is a global automotive leader with a career spanning nearly five decades. She has held senior roles at Jaguar Land Rover, Citroën, and Peugeot, serving as Global CEO of both Citroën and Peugeot and driving major brand transformations, including the transition to electric mobility.
Recognised with numerous awards, including the Golden Apple Award and entry to the UK Motoring Hall of Fame, Linda has also championed diversity within the automotive sector, encouraging women to enter and excel in the industry.
Professor Sir Stephen Huw Powis
Professor Sir Stephen Huw Powis served as National Medical Director of NHS England from 2018 to 2025, overseeing the NHS during one of its most challenging periods, including the COVID-19 pandemic. He provided expert advice to the UK government, co-chaired the National Quality Board, and led national health programmes in cardiovascular, respiratory, and preventive medicine. He holds an MBA from the University of Warwick and was knighted in 2022 for his services to the NHS.
In addition to his national roles, Professor Sir Stephen has contributed to international health initiatives and medical research, sharing his expertise on improving patient safety and healthcare delivery worldwide.
The University acknowledges the accomplishments of these honorary graduates, whose work has made a meaningful difference in their fields and beyond. Their presence at this year’s degree ceremonies celebrates both their achievements and the lasting influence of their contributions.
About the University of Warwick
Founded in 1965, the University of Warwick is a world-leading institution known for its commitment to era-defining innovation across research and education. A connected ecosystem of staff, students and alumni, the University fosters transformative learning, interdisciplinary collaboration and bold industry partnerships across state-of-the-art facilities in the UK and global satellite hubs. Here, spirited thinkers push boundaries, experiment, and challenge convention to create a better world.
