CLASS OF 2024: Leader awarded honorary accolade for global contribution supporting deaf people

Mark Wheatley, who has successfully supported deaf communities across Europe, has been awarded an Honorary Doctor of Social Sciences by the University of Wolverhampton.  

Honorary awards are presented by the University of Wolverhampton to people who have made a significant contribution to their field of expertise. 

In January this year, Mark took up the role of Chief Executive Officer at the Royal Association of Deaf people (RAD), becoming the first permanent deaf leader of the charity since it was founded in 1841.  

Previously, he was Executive Director at the European Union of the Deaf (EUD) where he worked with 31 national associations of the Deaf to promote sign languages.  

Mark has led on spearheading transformational policies, deaf rights and accessibility initiatives within leading deaf organisations across Europe.  

Mark said: "I’m honoured to receive this award from the University of Wolverhampton. It reflects the combined effort of many who strive to advance deaf rights and accessibility. I’m proud to be part of this ongoing journey towards a more inclusive world." 

The University’s graduation ceremonies are taking place at University of Wolverhampton The Halls from Friday 6 September to Friday 13 September 2024. 

To find out more about graduate success, check out the Every Story Has a Start web page which showcases our exceptional alumni across the globe doing incredible things. High achievers from the worlds of literature, business, sport, film and the arts feature, sharing how their lives and careers have developed since their days studying with us.     

After graduation, graduates become members of the Alumni Association and are encouraged to keep in touch, to take advantage of a wide range of benefits and support on offer, including a discount for postgraduate study.     

To learn more about the University’s Alumni Association please visit here, where graduates can also update their details with the Association.   

The Clearing hotline number is 01902 323 232 for anyone looking for courses starting in September and to find out more about our Open Days, visit our website.