2008
Mr Kevin Cahill CBE
Honorary Degree of Doctor of Letters in recognition of his outstanding contribution and commitment to fund-raising and humanitarian aid.
It takes exceptional skill to engage star names and inspire activities by millions of people to raise more than £500 million - so far - to combat poverty, disadvantage and injustice at home and around the world. Kevin Cahill, Chief Executive Officer of Comic Relief, has that talent. He leads the organisation's activities that include Red Nose Day, Sport Relief, the fundraising and distribution of donations. He secures famous participants, encourages the creative input, and oversees the gathering of material to show where support is needed.
Kevin joined Comic Relief as Director of Education and Information in 1990, gradually took on wider responsibilities and was appointed CEO in 1996. His working roots - not surprisingly - are in education. He taught English as a foreign language, and lectured in drama and film, and at the National Theatre set up the UK's first theatre-based education programme. His vital 'backstage' role in charity fundraising is being widely recognised - a CBE last year and a nomination as one of The Daily Telegraph people of the year.