Honorary graduates

Hilary 'Gussy' Marlowe2010

Hilary 'Gussy' Marlowe

Honorary Degree of Doctor of Science in recognition of her outstanding contribution as a benefactor and facilitator of medical research.

Mrs Marlowe's parents were the late John van Geest CBE and the late Lucille van Geest MBE, who created a charitable foundation from their Spalding-based food company, Geest Industries. The Foundation, which now bears their names, is a substantial benefactor for medical research, significantly in areas of brain damage and cancer. One of these activities is the new John van Geest Cancer Research Centre at Nottingham Trent University, which conducts research into cancer genetics and protein biomarkers that may be used in diagnosis and for developing cancer vaccines.

As chairman of the trustees, Mrs Marlowe has steered the work of the John and Lucille van Geest Foundation, shaping its funding policy and helping it to make important contributions to medical and social welfare programmes across the UK, especially in Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire. Mrs Marlowe has a background in fundraising for charity and has also helped in the development of her husband's publishing business.