The Vice President of Public Affairs and Communications at Harvard University has been recognised at UWS's summer graduations. 

Paul Andrew, from Paisley, was awarded an Honorary Doctorate in recognition of his impact on the public affairs and communications industry, at the University’s graduation ceremony which took place today at the Paisley Abbey.

In his role at Harvard, Paul oversees core external public affairs and communications functions, including community engagement efforts in Boston and Cambridge, and Harvard’s relationships with government stakeholders.

Since becoming Vice President at the University in 2015, he has led the institution’s external affairs efforts through many key moments including Harvard’s record fundraising campaign, the COVID-19 pandemic and campaigns to foreground the University’s teaching and research mission.

Having grown up in Paisley, Paul received a football scholarship which led him to leave Renfrewshire for America, where he studied Political Science and History at Plymouth State University. He holds the all-time assist record for Plymouth State men’s football team and was inducted into the University’s Athletic Hall of fame. He attended Castlehead High School, played youth football for Barrhead Boys Club, and also cricket at Ferguslie Cricket Club.

He began his career as a reporter at The Concord Monitor in New Hampshire and went on to become a frequent commentator for the BBC, CNN, and Fox on politics and international affairs.

He served as a Special Adviser to the Treasury, under the leadership of then-Chancellor, Gordon Brown, after working as communications lead for the Labour Party in the European Parliament.

Before joining Harvard, he held the role of executive vice-president and chief growth officer at Weber Shandwick in Boston, a global strategic communications consultancy, where he advised governments, non-profits, trade organizations and companies in Boston, nationally and internationally.

Discussing his Honorary Doctorate from UWS, Paul said: “It is a remarkable privilege to be recognized in this way and to become a member of the UWS community. UWS is a powerful force for good in Paisley, and for students and families from across the country and around the world. The institution - and all who are part of it – represent the very best elements of higher education, especially a deep commitment to helping individuals unlock their talent and fulfil their potential. It is a particular honour to be participating in ceremonies in my hometown of Paisley, a place that holds a special and unique place in my heart.”

The institution - and all who are part of it – represent the very best elements of higher education, especially a deep commitment to helping individuals unlock their talent and fulfil their potential. It is a particular honour to be participating in ceremonies in my hometown of Paisley, a place that holds a special and unique place in my heart.

Paul Andrew

Professor James Miller, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of UWS, said: “One of the most memorable events in the University calendar, graduation is a celebration of achievement, perseverance and personal growth. It honours the accomplishments of our students while recognising the important contribution of families, friends and the wider UWS community who have supported them throughout their academic experience.

“Paul has carved an exemplary career in public affairs and communications and serves as a compelling role model for our students – particularly those studying in areas such as media, marketing and politics.

“I was delighted to present him with an Honorary Doctorate from UWS, and to welcome him from America back to his hometown of Paisley during our graduation ceremony. Paul’s excellence in his field and commitment to the power of higher education is inspirational. Congratulations to him and all our students who graduated at today’s ceremony.”

Paul has carved an exemplary career in public affairs and communications and serves as a compelling role model for our students – particularly those studying in areas such as media, marketing and politics.

Professor James Miller, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of UWS 

Paul’s work aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 9, Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure and Goal 17, Partnerships for the Goals.