COMEDIAN Shappi Khorsandi will receive an honorary doctorate from the University of Winchester at a graduation ceremony in the cathedral on October 22.
The Iranian-born comic graduated from the university in 1995, when it was known as King Alfred’s College, with a degree in drama, theatre and television.
She is one of Britain’s most popular female comedians and a regular performer on TV and radio.
Last year she published her first book, A Beginner’s Guide to Acting British, an account of her cultural transition to British life.
Professor Elizabeth Stuart, pro vice chancellor at the university, said: “We are delighted to be able to honour Shappi Khorsandi. She is a wonderful role model to all our students because she had a dream – to be a comedian – and she pursued it relentlessly until she was successful.
“Humour can be an incisive way of analysing the world and Shappi brings both her extraordinary early story and the ordinary life of a woman and mother to bear in her comedy.”
This year, the University’s graduation ceremonies take place from October 20-22 in Winchester Cathedral.
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