In our summer 2017 ceremonies the University will present two special medals in recognition of individuals and their contributions to Warwick.

The Lady Butterworth of Warwick

Benefactors' Medal, 11am Friday 21 July 2017

We're delighted to recognise the achievements of Doris, The Lady Butterworth of Warwick. Lady Butterworth first came to Coventry when her husband Jack was appointed as the first Vice-Chancellor of Warwick. She has been actively involved in the University from the start, and was awarded an Honorary MA in 1986.

A renowned charity and community worker, Lady Butterworth has been actively involved in local volunteering and fundraising projects for over 40 years. She became involved in the task of transforming Warwickshire's mental hospital at Hatton, encouraging volunteers into the wards to generate mutual respect, openness and dignity. Her work was nationally recognised by her appointment as Chair of the National Association of Voluntary Help Organisers. She is now President of The Women’s Council, which promotes friendship between women of Asian countries and the UK, and improves the care of children with a disability and their families within their own communities in Asia.

Lady Butterworth has also made a significant contribution to Warwick’s philanthropic endeavours. She has been a constant supporter of our fundraising initiatives since the University’s outset, including chairing the appeal for the renovation of the Butterworth Hall, and acting as an advocate for us at every opportunity.

It is also thanks to Lady Butterworth that Warwick has become a significant beneficiary of The Elizabeth Creak Charitable Trust. This has resulted in funding for a Chair in Food Security, and support for students in the School of Life Sciences.

Sir George Cox

Chancellor's Medal, 3pm Friday 21 July 2017

As Pro-Chancellor and Chair of the University Council, Sir George Cox has made a significant and distinctive contribution to the work and life of the University.

An aerospace engineer by training, Sir George enjoyed a prestigious career in business, including serving as a member on several prominent boards. A past international rowing coach, Sir George was Chairman of Selectors for the GB men’s rowing team for the 1979 World Championships and the 1980 Olympics.

Sir George has served on the University Council and its committees since 2004, becoming Chair in October 2011. He brought to the role his business acumen and his wide experience of corporate governance, together with his sportsman’s enthusiasm, ambition and commitment to excellence.

He has worked tirelessly to further the reputation and reach of the University nationally and internationally, through both his ambassadorial role as Pro-Chancellor, and in his work as Chair of Council. His expertise, values and personality, combined with a deep commitment to Higher Education, and to Warwick in particular, have been instrumental in encouraging and enabling the University to make significant progress in recent years, and to set the agenda for a continued trajectory of growing and sustaining excellence.

Major strategic developments during Sir George’s tenure include the establishment of the Warwick Medical School, the development of the Monash and Warwick Alliance, Warwick in California, and many other national and international partnerships.