17 December 2025 - Honorary Degree awarded to UCISA CEO
We’re delighted to share that UCISA’s CEO has been awarded an honorary Doctorate of Letters by the University of West London in recognition of her significant contribution to the digital agenda in education.
At the degree ceremony, Adrian Ellison, PVC (People and Digital) highlighted that Deborah has been a major player in leading the digital agenda in education not only in the UK but also internationally. Her laureation outlined how as CEO of UCISA, Deborah has transformed the way that UCISA has engaged with and empowered its membership. With almost 100 events each year, engaging over 11,000 members, showcasing the best in digital practice in HE, UCISA is providing guidance, support and network opportunities for staff at all levels. UCISA’s membership engagement has increased ten fold under Deborah’s leadership.
There was also recognition of Deborah’s passion and enthusiasm together with her unparalleled tenacity making her a tour de force in the HE sector. Her ability to tackle some of the bigger challenges in the sector through her leadership in representation work was also acknowledged especially during the pandemic when all teaching had to move on line.
This honorary degree adds to the 2024 Best of British award that UCISA received through Deborah’s leadership for exemplary contribution to the UK HE sector. It also reenforces how Deborah serves as an inspiration to other women in leadership roles and women working in technology.
Congratulations Deborah!
