The University of Sheffield is honoring two remarkable individuals with honorary degrees, recognizing their significant contributions to their respective fields. Award-winning writer Johny Pitts and space exploration pioneer Sue Horne will be bestowed with Honorary Doctor of Letters and Honorary Doctor of Science degrees, respectively, on July 22, 2026. This recognition comes alongside the latest cohort of graduating students.
Pitts, a self-taught writer, photographer, and broadcaster, has made a name for himself by exploring African-European identities and documenting the Black experience across Europe. His digital platform, Afropean.com, and multimedia project have been instrumental in mapping and celebrating the African diaspora in Europe. Pitts' book, Afropean: Notes from Black Europe, has garnered numerous accolades, including the 2020 Jhalak Prize, the 2020 Bread and Roses Award, and the 2021 Leipzig Book Award for European Understanding. It has been translated into eight languages, further solidifying his impact on literature and cultural representation.
Pitts' journey from a working-class background to prestigious publishing and broadcasting stages has given him a unique perspective on imposter syndrome and navigating institutional spaces. He believes that his experiences have imbued him with self-confidence, and he encourages others from similar backgrounds to embrace their roots and become bridges between worlds. This sentiment is reflected in his quote, 'We are roses blooming through concrete.'
As a photographer, Pitts' work has been showcased in solo exhibitions, and as a broadcaster, he has presented for major networks like MTV, ITV, and the BBC. His current role as the host of Open Book on BBC Radio 4 further demonstrates his influence in the media industry.
Pitts' connection to Sheffield is particularly special. He reminisces about the city's inspiring atmosphere, especially during midweek afternoons, and how it has shaped his creative endeavors. He finds solace in the city's unhurried pace and its ability to make him feel at home, regardless of his background.
Sue Horne, the space exploration pioneer, has been instrumental in building and shaping the UK's Mars science community over the last two decades. Her efforts have positioned the UK as a world leader in Mars research, and she has been a driving force behind the UK's flagship Mars rover, Rosalind Franklin, set to launch in 2028. Horne's dedication to the space sector has been recognized with an MBE for services to the Space Science Programme and to education.
Both Pitts and Horne's honorary degrees from the University of Sheffield are well-deserved, acknowledging their exceptional contributions to literature, cultural representation, and space exploration. Their achievements not only inspire their respective fields but also serve as a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact of diverse perspectives.
