Broadcaster and journalist Sally Taylor MBE has received an honorary doctorate from Bournemouth University.
Sally is best known for presenting BBC regional news programme South Today from 1987 to 2025 and was believed to be the longest-serving female presenter of a regional television programme before retiring earlier this year.
Her voice was a trusted presence in homes across the South of England for nearly four decades, while Sally has also been recognised for her work in the community, and particularly her role in supporting charitable causes relating to cancer care. Sally was awarded an MBE in 2005 for her contributions to broadcasting and public service.
On receiving her award, Sally Taylor said, “It was very exciting; I've got a little bit of imposter syndrome at the moment but it's so wonderful to be a part of a really special time, these graduation ceremonies.
“I think it's wonderful to see families there and I love to see the support, because for many of these people, they will have been through some tough times to get to where they are. Each person has their own story and it's wonderful to share those stories, and they were doing that [this week], and they are so excited to be together, it really felt exhilarating to be a part of it.”
Sally began her career in teaching before transitioning into journalism in the mid-80s, and offered some advice to those graduating alongside her as they start their career journeys.
She said, “There are three things that are really important for them to remember and that was firstly to be curious. The journalist has to be curious, never accept the first answer, be curious. The second is to have courage, that doesn't mean being strong, but to have courage in doing things which are difficult for you, don't do the easy. The last thing is to listen to your gut instinct, but beware, it can kid you, so you've got to learn to do that, and I think if you just have those little things in place then you’ll be set for a great future.”
Around 6,000 students graduate this week from Bournemouth University, across 13 ceremonies, with families watching in person and online from over 100 countries.
For more information about studying at Bournemouth University, visit www.bournemouth.ac.uk.
