15 June 2026
Sir Chris was made an honorary graduate of the University in July 2010
Sir Chris Mullin
Former Sunderland South MP and honorary graduate of the University of Sunderland, Chris Mullin, has been knighted in the King's Birthday Honours List for political and public service.
Sir Chris, now 78, served his constituents between 1987 and 2010, as well as being a junior minister in Sir Tony Blair's government. He later published a series of diaries from his time in government, which became bestsellers.
He has also written four novels, including A Very British Coup, which portrays the undermining of a left-wing government. Having previously worked as a journalist, his campaigning work was also pivotal in securing the release of the Birmingham Six after they served 16 years in prison when they were wrongly convicted of the 1974 Birmingham pub bombings.
Sir Chris was made an honorary graduate of the University of Sunderland in July 2010 and for many years has been a regular speaker at the University’s public lectures.
Other University alumni recognised are:
- Debra Jayne Padgett - British Empire Medal (BEM)
Pathology Network Operational Lead and Clinical Pathology Lead, Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust. For services to Biomedical Science in the NHS (Whitley Bay, Tyne and Wear).
Debra studied a BSc (Hons) in Physiology at the University, graduating in 1999. More recently, she completed an MBA in Strategic Leadership and graduated in July 2025.
- Faye Marsh - BEM
Peer Mentor Manager, Darlington Borough Council. For services to Children and Young People in County Durham (Spennymoor, County Durham).
Faye completed an FdA in Working with Young People, graduating in 2012.