Professor Jason Arday Awarded Honorary Doctorate by St Mary’s University

Professor Jason Arday has today been awarded an Honorary Doctorate by St Mary’s University, Twickenham, in a ceremony in Westminster Cathedral.

Jason, an alumnus of St Mary’s University, was presented the award in recognition of his contribution to academic life, his charity work, and the support he has given St Mary’s throughout his career.

He was appointed a Professor of Sociology of Education at the University of Cambridge in 2023, becoming one of the youngest people ever appointed to a Professorship in the University’s history, having previously worked at Durham University and University of Glasgow.

A popular member of the St Mary’s community, his remarkable academic journey saw him progress from being unable to speak until aged 11 or read and write at 18, to completing his undergraduate studies at St Mary’s just four years later.

Speaking of the Award Professor Arday said, “St Mary's holds the most special place in my heart and there are not enough words to express my gratitude to the University for this great honour. I would especially like to extend my most sincerest thanks to the Vice-Chancellor Anthony McClaren for bestowing this wonderful honour upon me. I have greatly appreciated over the years the support of the St Mary's family throughout my career. It is a privilege to have been at this great institution and I would like to congratulate the outstanding Class of 2024.”

St Mary’s Vice-Chancellor Prof Anthony McClaran said, “We are delighted to make this award to Professor Arday and celebrate all he has achieved whilst he studied with us and through his career so far. He is a true role model to our students, and embodies our University values of excellence, respect, generosity of spirit and inclusiveness, in all he has achieved since graduating.”

After completing his undergraduate studies in 2008, Jason held a post as a sabbatical officer in St Mary’s Students’ Union. During his time in the role, he launched the popular annual varsity event against local sporting rivals Brunel University, which is now in its 16th year. Jason then went on to complete his first master’s degree at St Mary’s, before completing another master’s degree and his PhD at Liverpool John Moore’s University.

Aside from his academic achievements, Jason is a prolific fundraiser. Supporting both local and national charitable causes, Jason has raised £5.5m for over 80 charities, including one fundraising effort, which saw him run 30 marathons in 35 day.