Meet some of our notable alumni
Where are they now? Excelling globally. Meet our famous alumni, Alumni Laureates and our Honorary Graduates – making a positive impact across the globe in all walks of life.
Redefined the world, or transformed their own?
Our graduates have done both at the University of Hull. This proud port has launched over 100,000 freethinkers and changemakers to the world over our almost 100-year history.
From lifesavers in the NHS, to Nobel prize winners, academy award regulars, and entertainers – explore the impact, innovation, and influence that our graduates continue to bring to every aspect of life.
Famous alumni from the University of Hull
Meet the visionaries and innovators who’ve made their mark – our famous alumni who continue to inspire and lead on the world stage.
Lucy Beaumont
BA Drama
2004
BAFTA-nominated actor, comedian and writer Lucy Beaumont is known for her razor-sharp wit, observational humour and distinctive Hull accent. Since graduating from the University of Hull, she has built a successful career in stand-up and television, with appearances on 8 out of 10 Cats and Taskmaster.
Guido Imbens
- MSc Economics
- 1986
Noble prize-winning economist Guido Imbens credits his time at Hull as a key inspiration for his PhD in Economics. Now a Professor of Economics at Stanford Graduate School, he was part of the team awarded the Nobel Prize in 2021 for his contributions to econometrics.
Mark Chapman
- BA French and Business Studies
- 1995
Mark Chapman is one of the UK’s most recognisable sports broadcasters. With a career spanning radio and television, he has covered major events, including the Premier League, international football, and the Olympics. He is best known for Match of the Day and BBC Radio 5 Live Sport.
Our 2025 Alumni Laureates
Some graduates make waves right from the start. Dive into meeting our Alumni Laureates – notable graduates who’ve demonstrated exceptional achievement within a decade of leaving the University of Hull, awarded for their outstanding impact and contributions across their fields.
Laura Su
BA Management and Business, 2014
Laura is a sustainability leader driving innovation in waste recovery and circular economy solutions.
Daniel Swift MBE
MA Theatre Making, 2019
Daniel is an inclusive theatre leader, creative producer, and changemaker transforming access in the performing arts.
Heather T Lacey
BA English, 2015
Heather is a disability rights advocate, writer, and business development professional, driving inclusion through lived experience and strategic influence.
James Deighton
BSc Sports Coaching & Performance Science, 2014
James is a performance analyst and lifelong rugby league fan shaping elite sport through data and dedication.
Usman Ali
BA Philosophy, Politics and Economics, 2014
Usman is an investor and strategist driving innovation across emerging technologies and global markets.
Alumni stories: Where are they now?
The University has played a huge role in my life and career and I will be forever grateful to it for that.Tracy Borman
Joint Chief Curator of Historic Royal Palaces
Where are they now? Read the latest news and stories of our alumni from all walks of life.
Our 2025 Honorary Graduates
Celebrate our honorary graduates: extraordinary individuals recognised for their remarkable achievements and strong ties to the University of Hull. Explore their inspiring stories and see how they champion our values while making a difference in the world.
Navigate through the remarkable journeys of our honorary grads on the Humber.
Do you think someone deserves a splash of recognition with an honorary degree?
Alan Raw
CEO at Galactic ESG Ltd
Speculative fiction author, sustainability leader and former BBC presenter. CEO of Galactic ESG, Alan uses space tech for nature-based solutions. Co-founded BBC Introducing, and the Creative & Cultural Organisation.
Dean Windass
Former Hull City player
Former pro footballer and Hull hero, best known for his winning goal at Wembley in 2008 that took Hull City to the Premier League. Now a broadcaster and author, he champions mental health and resilience.
Jaz Ampaw-Farr
Co-founder Be Human First Ltd
Award-winning speaker and changemaker who helps people reframe their stories. Blending humour and lived experience, she inspires action and transforms lives through her consultancy, Be Human First.
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