As the summer graduation season continues, ceremonies arrive in the Luton area next week with some 2,500 students set to receive their certificate at the University’s leafy Putteridge Bury campus – marking years of dedication and hard work.

Alongside the graduates from the faculties of Health and Social Sciences; Creative Arts, Technologies and Science; and the Business School at the neo-Elizabethan manor house, will be those the University has selected to receive a special honorary degree.

The first of the week will be presented to stage and screen actress, author and wildlife campaigner Virginia McKenna OBE, on Monday at 2pm.

Virginia McKenna, who is perhaps best known for her role in British drama film Born Free, is the Founder and Trustee of the Born Free Foundation – an international wildlife charity (based in Horsham) working throughout the world to stop individual wild animal suffering and protect threatened species in the wild.

She will receive an Honorary Doctor of Arts for her “outstanding contribution to acting and to the conservation of animals”.

On Tuesday at 10.30am, the Vice Chairman of Luton Town FC, Jack Sapsworth MBE, is being recognised for his “outstanding contribution to fundraising and charity work”.

Jack Sapsworth MBE, with his family, on his installation as the High Sheriff of Bedfordshire in 2012 at the Putteridge Bury campus. Credit: Central Bedfordshire Council

Mr Sapsworth, a Former High Sheriff – as well as Deputy Lieutenant – of Bedfordshire, has been a member of the Rotary Club of Luton since 1981 and has received Rotary International's highest level award the Four Avenues of Service Citation. He is also a very active fundraiser for local homeless charity, Signposts, and for Keech Hospice Care.

The successful businessman of more than 43 years will be presented with an Honorary Doctor of Business Administration.

Broadcast specialist Sally-Ann Wilson is the next to be recognised.

The Secretary-General of the Commonwealth Broadcasting Association will receive an Honorary Doctor of Business Administration for her “outstanding contribution to media broadcasting”.

A firm supporter of education and the role of positive media in support of development, and poverty reduction, Ms Wilson will receive her award at 2pm on Tuesday.

Photo, by Andy Gotts, shows Virginia McKenna.