Jo Brand receives honorary degree
3 November 2010
One of the nation’s leading female comics has received an honorary degree in recognition of her contribution to the media industries.
Southampton Solent University awarded Jo Brand the honorary degree of Doctor of Media during a ceremony at Southampton’s Guildhall on Wednesday 3 November.
Since her award-winning Channel 4 series, Through the Cakehole, Jo has amassed an almost endless list of highly successful television and radio appearances – including QI, Have I Got News For You, Live at the Apollo, The Graham Norton Show and Mock The Week. A second series of Jo’s hit BBC comedy, Getting On, has returned to our screens.
All this was a far cry from Jo’s first career. She took her first job at a Dr Barnardos home, following in the footsteps of her mother – a social worker. Then, a demanding career as a psychiatric nurse gave her valuable experience to deliver guest lectures as well as provide inspiration for her television sitcoms.
In addition to her reputation as one of Britain’s best loved comedy talents, Jo is an accomplished writer. Previous novels include Sorting Out Billy and It’s Different For Girls. She has recently published a third novel, The More You Ignore Me; and volume one of her memoirs, Look Back In Hunger.
More than 2000 students are graduating with degrees and professional qualifications during 10 ceremonies at Southampton Guildhall from 1-5 November.
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FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT THE MEDIA OFFICE ON 023 8031 9040