Goldsmiths University honours Doreen Lawrence, Tony Benn, Nitin Sawhney and Anne Enright (From News Shopper)

Goldsmiths University honours Doreen Lawrence, Tony Benn, Nitin Sawhney and Anne Enright

4:42pm Tuesday 18th September 2012 in News By Mark Chandler

DOREEN Lawrence was one of a host of well-known figures to receive an honorary fellowship from Goldsmiths this year.

The New Cross university is giving the award to murdered teen Stephen Lawrence's mum along with fellowships or degrees for politician Tony Benn, musician Nitin Sawhney and Booker-prize winning author Anne Enright.

Each received their awards at the college's annual presentation ceremonies, during which more than 1,000 students graduated in front of family and friends.

Ms Lawrence said: "Education is the most precious gift we can give our children and it is also one of the greatest gifts we can receive. As a child growing up, I always dreamed of receiving an academic award.

"But I had to wait for that moment much later in life. That wait has been well worth it."

She added: "I am proud that Goldsmiths has worked in partnership with the Stephen Lawrence Charitable Trust in raising the aspirations and academic achievements of students and young people in the locality.
We know from experience that the talent exists within young people today.

"If we can devise and encourage ways to nurture this talent, society as a whole will be the beneficiary."

Ms Lawrence's long wait some justice over her son's 1993 murder finally ended in January when Gary Dobson and David Norris were convicted of the killing.

Investigative journalist Nick Davies, who helped expose the phone-hacking scandal, was also given an honorary degree and used the opportunity to praise Goldsmiths' department of media and communications.

He said: "I've had some really good support from several of the senior people there, and I've also hired researchers who have graduated from their courses.

"Accepting the fellowship is a way of acknowledging and thanking them all."