Queen Camilla, a prominent figure in the Royal Family alongside King Charles, has been awarded an honorary doctorate in recognition of her efforts to promote literacy and a love for reading. The ceremony took place at the University of London, where her sister-in-law, Princess Anne, presented her with the honorary doctorate of literature.
This event was part of the University of London’s Foundation Day, a tradition that dates back to 1903. Queen Camilla, dressed in ceremonial red and brown robes, was celebrated for her lifelong commitment to encouraging reading and education. She has been a strong advocate for literacy programs throughout the Commonwealth, visiting schools, workplaces, and prisons to observe the impact of adult literacy initiatives.
Queen Camilla is also a patron of several literacy-focused organizations, including the National Literacy Trust and BookTrust. Her own initiative, The Queen’s Reading Room, began as an online book club in 2021 and has since evolved into a charity dedicated to fostering a love for reading.
During the ceremony, Princess Anne, who has held the position of the university's chancellor since 1981, praised all recipients as "remarkable individuals" and recognized them as leaders in their fields. Queen Camilla participated in a formal procession into William Beveridge Hall, where she received her honorary degree.
Sir Mark Lowcock, chairman of the university’s board of trustees, emphasized Queen Camilla’s enthusiasm for reading. He quoted her words: “Reading is exciting, reading is fun, reading is cool. There’s nothing quite like the thrill of opening a book and being drawn into another world to meet new people and to discover their stories. It’s like making new friends.”
Draped in ceremonial attire with a hood over her hair, Queen Camilla received her diploma scroll after a respectful moment with Princess Anne. They exchanged a handshake before the scroll was officially handed to the Queen.
The event also acknowledged other notable figures from various fields, including law, medicine, and social sciences, for their contributions.
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