Parkinson takes up university chancellor role

Chat show legend Michael Parkinson will become chancellor of a university today despite never having studied for a degree himself.

The 73-year-old is the first person to take on the post of chancellor at Nottingham Trent University.

He will formally accept the role at a graduation ceremony at the Royal Concert Hall in Nottingham at 4.30pm today.

A number of stars will be receiving honorary degrees during the ceremony, including the former England cricket captain Michael Vaughan, actress Judi Dench, television presenter Jeremy Clarkson and comedian Billy Connolly.

The broadcaster Mariella Frostrup and the chairman of Everton football club Bill Kenwright will also receive honorary degrees.

During the ceremony, Parkinson will tell the 1,500 graduates and their guests that he is “deeply honoured” to become chancellor of Nottingham Trent University.

He will say: “I am very much looking forward to starting this new chapter in my life and in being involved in an environment where nurturing talent and helping people realise their full potential is seen as a priority.”

Professor Neil Gorman, vice-chancellor of the university, said: “I can think of no-one better than Michael Parkinson to fulfil this important role as the figurehead of our university.

“He is a distinguished broadcaster and journalist known for his integrity and charisma and I know he will be a wonderful advocate for us and will provide genuine inspiration to our university community.”

When he accepted the post of chancellor last June, Parkinson said he would be keen to offer students on the university’s highly-rated media courses tips on how to conduct a good interview.

He also said he hoped he could open doors for the next generation of aspiring chat show hosts.

Parkinson said: “I know they (the university) want me to be a figurehead and do graduation ceremonies but I may be able to put their students in touch with one or two people they wouldn’t otherwise have been able to get in touch with.”