Renowned actor and author Paterson Joseph received an honorary doctorate from the University of Roehampton, celebrating his outstanding contributions to the arts and his commitment to inclusivity. Mary L. Shannon, a senior lecturer at the School of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences, nominated Joseph for the honour, emphasising his impact on British cultural life. “Paterson is a champion of inclusive practice and research,” Dr Shannon said. “His work has shown that Black history is an essential part of British history.”
Born in 1964 in northwest London, Dr Joseph has had a distinguished career in theatre and television, featuring in productions such as Othello, King Lear, Peep Show, and Doctor Who. Made Chancellor of Oxford Brookes University in 2023, he is also an Honorary Research Fellow at the University of Birmingham and founder of Sancho Productions, through which he promotes diverse narratives. His acclaimed novel, The Secret Diaries of Charles Ignatius Sancho, explores the life of the first Black British voter and has won multiple awards, including the Royal Society of Literature’s 2023 Christopher Bland Prize.
The ceremony highlighted Joseph’s unwavering commitment to fostering diversity and inclusivity within the arts. His extensive research into 18th-century history has opened new conversations about the past, emphasising the richness of Black contributions to British culture. ‘I was part of a generation of Black kids branded “educationally subnormal”, so this means everything’, Joseph said at the Royal Festival Hall.
The ceremony was filled with enthusiasm, as students eagerly interacted with Joseph, seeking photographs and shaking his hand. “The joy on the students’ faces showed how much his presence meant to them,” Shannon observed. Joseph's honorary doctorate serves as a powerful inspiration for Roehampton students. “Paterson will be a champion for Roehampton’s teaching, research, and ethos, as well as a fantastic example of entrepreneurship and social commitment for all our students”, Shannon emphasised.
Looking ahead, Roehampton plans to invite Joseph to engage further with students and faculty, particularly in areas related to Black British history, which align with his research interests. “We look forward to Paterson contributing to our academic community and inspiring our students,” Shannon added.
To watch a short clip of Joseph sharing his advice to new graduates, reflecting on a standout moment in his career and the significance of the award, head over to our Instagram: Watch here.
(Notice appeared in the Daily Mail diary about the award. Photo credit: Journalist, York Membery)