A privilege I value enormously - former SAFC chairman Sir Bob Murray receives honorary degree
Former Sunderland AFC chairman Sir Bob Murray has been awarded an honorary degree for his contribution to supporting the lives of people in the city and wider region.
Sir Bob was chairman of the Black Cats for 20 years, between 1986 and 2006, during which time he facilitated the building of the Stadium of Light. He also established the Foundation of Light - SAFC’s official charity - which has gone on to help thousands of disadvantaged children, young people and families in the North East.
Sir Bob has also established scholarships for disadvantaged students, “ensuring that background is never a barrier to opportunity”.
This week, he received an honorary degree of Doctor of Civil Law from Northumbria University.
Sir Bob said: “To be honoured by Northumbria University is a privilege I value enormously.
“As a former student of Newcastle Polytechnic, this recognition carries real personal significance.
“The North East shaped who I am, and the education I received here gave me the foundation for my career in business, football, and community work.
“Northumbria’s reputation for ambition, innovation and inclusion mirrors the principles that have guided my life.
“To be acknowledged by the university where my journey began means a great deal. I hope this award encourages others to aim high, work with integrity and believe in what they can achieve.”
Sir Bob's journey from a coal-mining family in Consett to self-made millionaire “exemplifies the transformative power of education”. He studied accountancy at Newcastle Polytechnic, which became Northumbria University in 1992.