Radio 1 DJ Greg James is set to receive an honorary degree from the University of York. His connection to the university is unique, highlighted by his role in a memorial service for Long Boi, an exceptionally tall mallard that captured the hearts of many online.
Long Boi became famous for his height and even made guest appearances on Greg’s weekday breakfast show. In 2022, Greg suggested they co-host a show together. This dream finally materialized in March 2023, when Long Boi’s quack reached millions of listeners.
Sadly, later that year, Long Boi went missing, which led to a community-driven effort to honor him with a statue—something Greg unveiled personally. Reflecting on this journey, York’s Vice Chancellor, Charlie Jeffery, praised Greg for his “remarkable contribution to society,” especially in promoting mental health awareness among young people.
Speaking about the degree, Greg humorously remarked, “I’m getting a duck-torate. I’m going to be a duck-tor.” He expressed gratitude for the honor and felt it was a surprise to be recognized with such an accolade. It aligns with his previous honorary degree from the University of East Anglia, awarded in 2015.
Greg is a strong advocate for the power of radio in fostering community and connection. He explained that radio serves as a comforting presence in today’s divided world, saying, “Radio is a friend to people. It puts you in a community of like-minded individuals.”
As he prepares for his graduation speech, Greg plans to focus on celebrating the essence of radio and community, with Long Boi undoubtedly taking center stage. His fans eagerly anticipate his light-hearted approach, which is expected to include some playful nods to social media trends—like referencing popular quotes from Pitbull, who also received an honorary degree in 2015.
In a world where mental health is increasingly important, Greg James stands out not just for his entertaining style but for his meaningful contributions. His journey highlights the impact that media personalities can have by connecting deeply with their audience.
For more insights into the significance of honorary degrees and the impact of influential figures in media, you can check a detailed report from BBC News.
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Greg James,University of York,honorary degree,Greg Jenner,York university