The appointments were announced as the university celebrated its largest graduation ceremonies, with six ceremonies held across two days for the first time in its history.

Among those recognised was business leader and entrepreneur Charlene Wall  founder of The Wood Manor Group, whose work spans property development, sustainability, skills development and social mobility.

A longstanding supporter of University College Birmingham, she has contributed to student networking opportunities, supported scholarships and helped establish the West Midlands Green Skills Advisory Panel, strengthening links between education and industry.

"I look forward to working even more closely with University College Birmingham in the near future,” said Charlene.

“Building on the partnership we have already established and creating further opportunities for the next generation of construction and built environment professionals.”

Also awarded an honorary professorship was engineer, broadcaster and STEM advocate Yewande Akinola, EMEA technical director at CBRE Global Workplace Solutions.

An internationally recognised engineer and champion of diversity in STEM, she has used her platform to inspire future talent while supporting initiatives that strengthen technical education and employer engagement.

"I am deeply honoured to be awarded an Honorary Professorship from University College Birmingham,” said Yewande.

“I want to help strengthen the pathways between education and industry, champion greater diversity within technical careers and work with academic institutions and employers to develop the skills needed for a more sustainable, innovative, and resilient built environment.

“Together, we can empower the next generation of technical leaders who will shape the places where we live, work, and thrive.”

The announcements came during a landmark graduation period for the university, which celebrated thousands of students and graduates across two days of ceremonies at Birmingham’s Symphony Hall.