Public health chiefs praise teams as they receive honorary degrees
LEICESTER and Leicestershire’s public health directors have been awarded honorary degrees in recognition of their outstanding contribution throughout the pandemic.
Ivan Browne, director of public health at Leicester City Council, and Mike Sandys, his counterpart at Leicestershire County Council, were presented with their degrees at Loughborough University’s summer graduation ceremony.
Since the start of the pandemic both have worked tirelessly to lead and guide the people of Leicester and Leicestershire through one of the most challenging times in living memory.
“Their contribution to the region during such difficult times has been truly outstanding,” said Professor Robert Allison, Vice-Chancellor of Loughborough University. “We are delighted to be able to recognise and celebrate all they have done.”
Before receiving his honour, Professor Browne said: “It’s an incredible privilege to serve the place that I was born in, live in and love in this capacity at such a crucial time, so to be recognised for my contribution in this way is so much more than I would have expected.
“I would also like to acknowledge the extraordinary dedication and resilience of my team, wider colleagues and above all our local communities in meeting this unprecedented challenge.”
When hearing he would be getting the honorary degree, Mr Sandys said: “I couldn’t have led the public health response without the heroic efforts of the people around me – in the team, the wider partnership and, of course, my family who’ve supported me through long days and nights.
“We have pulled together and I am hopeful for the future.”