A highly respected business leader and passionate advocate for sustainability and education has been recognised for her outstanding contribution to University of the West of Scotland with an Honorary Doctorate.

Kate Allum, former Chair of Court at UWS, was honoured today during a ceremony at Paisley Abbey, for her exceptional leadership, six years of dedicated service to the University, and her wider contribution to business and society.

Kate served as Chair of Court at UWS from February 2020 to January 2026, guiding the University through a significant period of change, development and achievement. During her tenure, she supported key senior leadership appointments, investment and growth across the University's campuses, the diversification of its student community and the development of Strategy 2030.

With an extensive career spanning senior executive and non-executive positions across a range of sectors and countries, Kate has held a number of high-profile leadership roles, including Chief Executive of Cedo Ltd and First Milk Ltd. She is currently Interim Chief Executive of The Co-op Group, Chair of the Scottish SPCA and a Non-Executive Director at Business Stream.

A passionate advocate for environmental, social and economic sustainability, Kate has consistently championed the role of education in creating a fairer, more sustainable future. Her commitment to widening educational opportunity and the transformative power of education has been central to her longstanding connection with UWS.

Her Honorary Doctorate recognises not only her significant contribution to the University and its community, but also the lasting legacy of her leadership, advocacy and commitment to transforming lives through education.

Discussing being awarded an Honorary Doctorate from UWS, Kate said: “I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition from UWS. I have been privileged to serve the University over the past six years in my role as Chair of Court and have been continually inspired by its ambition and its role as an anchor institution, making a real and lasting difference to the communities it serves.

“I have particularly valued the opportunity to get to know so many inspirational staff and students, whose passion, dedication and ambition make UWS such a special place. I am immensely proud of the University's commitment to widening participation, transforming lives through education and contributing to a more sustainable future. I look forward to continuing to champion UWS and its important work.”

I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition from UWS. I have been privileged to serve the University over the past six years in my role as Chair of Court and have been continually inspired by its ambition and its role as an anchor institution, making a real and lasting difference to the communities it serves.

Kate Allum

Professor James Miller, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of the West of Scotland, said: “Graduation is a very special occasion for our students and the University. It acknowledges the hard work, commitment and achievements of our graduates, while celebrating the encouragement and support of families, friends and the wider UWS community who have been part of their experience.

“Kate has made an outstanding contribution to UWS and leaves a lasting legacy through her leadership, commitment and unwavering belief in our University’s purpose. Throughout her time as Chair of Court, Kate has been a passionate advocate for UWS and the transformative power of education. She has also been a fantastic supporter of our staff and students – this Honorary Doctorate is a fitting recognition of her contribution to the University and the wider community.”

Kate has made an outstanding contribution to UWS and leaves a lasting legacy through her leadership, commitment and unwavering belief in our University’s purpose.

Professor James Miller, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of UWS

Kate’s work aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 4: Quality Education, Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities and Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals.