Laura Woods receives honorary doctorate at Kingston University graduation

SPORTS presenter Laura Woods was presented with an honorary doctorate at Kingston University.

Posted Saturday, January 24, 2026 by Thesun.co.uk

TNT Sports presenter Laura Woods returned to her alma mater on Thursday to receive an honorary doctorate, marking a significant milestone in her illustrious broadcasting career. The 38-year-old journalist, who graduated from Kingston University (KU) with a degree in print journalism in 2008, was recognized by the School of Arts and the School of Creative and Cultural Industries for her outstanding contributions to journalism and her advocacy for women in sports.

Laura Woods was presented with an honorary doctorate at Kingston University.

During the Class of 2025 graduation ceremony, the multi-award-winning host became visibly emotional while accepting the honor. Watching from the audience were her fiancé, former Love Island star Adam Collard, and their infant son, Leo.

Beth Brewster, Kingston's Head of the Department of Journalism, presented the title of "Dr. Woods" and shared a tribute on social media alongside a celebratory selfie. "I remember teaching Laura as a student full of energy, enthusiasm, and real drive," Brewster remarked. "Celebrating this truly well-deserved honour makes me incredibly proud. She's achieved so much, and this recognition couldn't be more fitting."

Addressing the new graduates and their families from the podium, Woods shared the philosophy behind her rise from KU student to a leading voice at Sky Sports, talkSPORT, and TNT Sports. "Always work hard but always be authentic; you really are the only person that can do you and do it well," she advised. "You have to get comfortable with being uncomfortable—it's the only way you can grow. Trust in yourself and be bold, brave, and unapologetic."

Kingston University continues its reputation for producing high-caliber media professionals, with an alumni list that includes notable journalists such as Jamal Osman, Catarina Demony, and Mashaal Mir. For Woods, the day served as a poignant full-circle moment at the very institution where her career journey began.

Woods got emotional after being awarded by KU