Edinburgh Napier’s Chancellor Will Whitehorn has been awarded an honorary doctorate, marking the conclusion of his tenure at the University.
A leading figure in the commercialisation and advancement of the UK space industry, Will has held the role at ENU since 2021.
He is widely known as the founding president of Virgin Galactic, where he led the development of the world’s first commercial space tourism venture.
Born and raised in Edinburgh, Will’s professional career began as a crewman on North Sea search‑and‑rescue helicopters. After roles with Thomas Cook, TSB Group and Lombard Communications, he joined the Virgin Group, where he became a close and trusted colleague of Sir Richard Branson.
He drew widespread recognition as a figurehead for the space industry in the UK, with roles as chairman of Clyde Space and president of industry group UKspace.
In 2021 he became chair and floated Seraphim Space Investment Trust PLC on the stock market. It became the most successful space investment company in the world and was listed on the FTSE 250 index for the first time last month.
The Chancellor was formally awarded an Honorary Degree of Doctor of Science during a graduation ceremony at Edinburgh’s Usher Hall today.
Reacting to his honorary graduation, Chancellor Will Whitehorn said: “It has been a huge privilege to be Chancellor of Edinburgh Napier University for the past five years.
“It is such a vibrant, positive university that continues to inspire, educate and make a difference to society despite the challenges in the Scottish higher education sector.
“I have loved seeing so many graduates cross the stage, knowing that they are so well prepared for whatever they choose to do next.
“It is now an honour to be awarded a Doctorate of Science from the University. Science has been central to my career, from my part in designing Pendolino tilting trains to my role in helping to establish the UK as a serious contributor to the global space economy.
“I look forward to following Edinburgh Napier University’s future journey with both interest and pride.”
The honorary graduation is the latest recognition of Will’s career. Last year he was awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for his space industry leadership.
Giving his formal laureation at the Usher Hall, Edinburgh Napier University Vice Principal for Regional Innovation & External Affairs, Gary Hutchison, said: “Will Whitehorn is a visionary leader, an advocate for education, and an inspiring example to our students and graduates.
“He reminds us that ambition, when guided by learning and integrity, can carry us far beyond what once seemed possible.
“He has spoken passionately of universities as places of adventure and possibility, and that a degree from Edinburgh Napier prepares graduates not merely for employment, but for leadership in uncertain and changing times.
“However, he has always stressed that a degree is not the end of learning – curiosity is a superpower and learning is something you need to embrace every day throughout your life.”
Will Whitehorn’s graduation comes in the same week as a major report about science diplomacy is published by the UK government’s Science, Innovation and Technology Committee – for which he contributed expert witness evidence.
Published on Tuesday, it called for a strategy on how the UK can use science and technology to support its wider diplomatic goals and keep up with the pace of international change.
Edinburgh Napier University’s graduation ceremonies are being held at the Usher Hall this week.