Geri Halliwell-Horner says ‘education is power’ as she receives honorary degree

Geri Halliwell-Horner has celebrated becoming the first Spice Girl to get an honorary degree, telling students “education is power”.

The new Dr Halliwell-Horner donned her robes at Sheffield Hallam University’s graduation ceremony on Tuesday, saying she felt “truly honoured and grateful” as she received the her scroll from the chancellor, Baroness Helena Kennedy.

The former Ginger Spice said: “I think Sheffield Hallam University is an amazing place. It’s incredibly diverse and inclusive.

“When they offered me this honorary doctorate, I was truly honoured and grateful.

“I love learning, so it feels fantastic to be here.”

The university said it granted her the degree in recognition of her commitment to raising the aspirations of children and young people, advocating for women’s rights and an outstanding contribution to the music industry over the last 25 years.

Halliwell-Horner told students gathered for graduation at Sheffield’s Pond’s Forge sports centre: “I sincerely believe education is a superpower – we are learning machines and I am still learning.

“I’ve learnt that students here at Sheffield Hallam graduate with more than a degree, but with a passion, a focus and a vision for life.”

She told those about to graduate that she did not go university but loved studying English literature at A-level “before I embarked on a different kind of adventure”.

She added: “But I always valued my education and my love of reading, storytelling and words.

“I always had my education to lean on. Education is power.”