Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford is set to become the youngest-ever recipient of an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Manchester later this summer, following his campaign against child poverty.
At 22, Marcus Rashford’s star continues to rise with news that the Manchester United and England striker is set to be given an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Manchester later this summer. The award comes after Rashford campaigned for the government to allow about 1.3 million children to claim free school meal vouchers in England's summer holidays. It is the highest honour the university can bestow and it will see him in company with previous recipients Sir Alex Ferguson and Sir Bobby Charlton.
Rashford said: "When you look at the great names that have been awarded this doctorate in the past, it's humbling.
"We still have a long way to go in the fight to combat child poverty in this country but receiving recognition from your city means we are heading in the right direction and that means a lot.”
Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell, the university president and vice-chancellor, said: “Marcus is an extraordinary young man with an extraordinary talent and drive that stretches well beyond the football field. His work for charity and his high-profile campaign will not only help countless young people across our own city but across the entire country.
“Our university has social responsibility at its core and this sense of civic pride and duty is something we are proud to share with Marcus. That is why the university is delighted to make Marcus our youngest-ever recipient of an honorary degree.”
