Krishnan Guru-Murthy was among three Lancastrians who accepted an award at the University of Lancashire in winter graduation ceremonies.
The national TV journalist was among a former English women’s footballer and the first female UK ambassador to the United States of America, who received the Honorary Fellowship recognition.
Raised and schooled in nearby Blackburn, Guru Murthy has been a major part of Channel 4 News for nearly three decades, covering some of the world’s largest conflicts.
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Krishnan, who was acknowledged for his significant contribution to journalism and broadcasting, said: “It’s lovely to be recognised by an academic institution, and it’s great to come and celebrate with a bunch of young people who have obviously worked incredibly hard.
“The biggest advice I can give the graduates is to be very resilient, it’s a lot different nowadays than when my generation was leaving university, but don’t give up too soon, hang on in there, and you will find your place.”
Among Krishnan, Burnley-born Rachel Brown-Finnis was presented with the award at Preston University.
Acknowledged for her significant contribution to football and sports broadcasting, she said: “It’s unbelievably humbling, this is a tremendous honour, and I am very grateful. This Fellowship feels like a celebration of possibility, of what can happen when passion meets perseverance.
“The advice I’d offer to any of the graduates is for them to beat their own drum, make their own pathway.”
She continued: “They have been sparked at some point and have found something they absolutely love doing.
“That is something they’ll get up for every single day, they’ll want to strive to be better and they’ll work harder.”
Ex-Penwortham Girls’ Grammar School student Dame Karen Pierce was the final of the trio to receive the award.
Dame Pierce was recognised for her loyal commitment and contribution towards the UK’s diplomatic service.
She said: “It’s a huge honour and a privilege, and it was just wonderful to be here with so many of the graduates.
“I think there’s something very important about not letting failure drag you down, and I think it’s a great lesson for the graduates.”
She continued: “There’s a glass ceiling, but somebody has to be first through it, and it should be, and it can be, the graduates, so don’t let that put them off.”
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