The University of Sheffield is set to award honorary degrees to two of the UK’s most influential public figures during its January graduation ceremonies, recognising outstanding contributions to society across finance, sport and public life.
Money Saving Expert founder Martin Lewis and Team GB’s most decorated Paralympian Dame Sarah Storey will both receive Honorary Doctor of Letters degrees as hundreds of students gather to celebrate their academic achievements throughout graduation week.
Martin Lewis will be awarded his honorary degree on Wednesday 14 January 2026 in recognition of his significant impact on financial education and consumer advocacy. Widely regarded as the UK’s leading money-saving expert, Lewis has helped millions of people better understand their finances and make informed decisions.
He is the founder and executive chair of Money Saving Expert, the UK’s largest consumer finance website, which supports more than 16 million users each month. An award-winning campaigning journalist, Lewis presents his own prime-time ITV show, appears regularly on Good Morning Britain, and hosts a popular podcast and YouTube channel.
Through sustained campaigning, he has driven policy change at the highest levels of government and founded two charities supporting people facing financial hardship.
Dame Sarah Storey will receive her honorary degree during a ceremony on Monday 12 January 2026. She is the most successful British Paralympian of all time, having won 19 gold, eight silver and three bronze medals across swimming and cycling at nine Paralympic Games.
Her career also includes 45 world titles and multiple world records, making her one of the most decorated athletes in British sporting history.
Beyond elite competition, Dame Sarah has played a prominent role in promoting the wider benefits of sport and physical activity. She currently serves as Active Travel Commissioner for South Yorkshire, Interim Chair of Lancashire Cricket Club, and was named Leader of the Year at the 2024 Leaders in Sport Awards.
Graduation week will also mark the installation of Andy Haldane as the University of Sheffield’s new Chancellor. The former Bank of England Chief Economist will be formally installed on Monday 12 January 2026, having taken over the role from Dame Anne Rafferty in November 2025.
A University of Sheffield alumnus, Haldane graduated in 1988 with a degree in Accounting and Financial Management and Economics. He was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Letters in 2018 in recognition of his distinguished career in economics.
As Chancellor, he will act as an honorary figurehead and ambassador for the University, representing the institution nationally and internationally, overseeing governance, and conferring degrees at future graduation ceremonies.
Graduation ceremonies will take place throughout the week from Monday 12 January to Thursday 15 January, celebrating the achievements of students from across the University.
