Alan Cumming and Val McDermid receive honours for culture contribution

The National

03-07-2025

Swapping his trademark tartan Traitors wardrobe for the traditional honorary graduate black gown Cumming was awarded a Doctor of Laws (LLD) by the University of St Andrews in recognition of his incredible service to the arts, in all its forms.
Meanwhile, McDermid, who is one of the UK's most accomplished and respected novelists, was created an honorary Doctor of Letters by the University of Edinburgh's School of Literature, Languages and Cultures.
The pair joined hundreds of graduates at each of the respected universities as Cumming told students that 'learning never stops'.
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In his address to graduating students, he said: 'You must never stop learning, you must never stop being curious.
'It's so important to stay open to the possibility of life and this was only the beginning of your education.
'This maybe have been your formal education, but learning never stops, so embrace it. Embrace curiosity.'
(Image: University of St Andrews)
Meanwhile, McDermid, who is an international bestselling author whose books have been translated into more than forty languages and sold over 19 million copies worldwide, also received her award on Thursday.
It was given to McDermid in recognition of her contribution to writing and broadcasting, and in celebration of her success as an author and ambassador for Scottish literature worldwide.
She said: 'When I was a teenager in Fife more than half a century ago, the University of Edinburgh was a place of glamour and aspiration - and parties!
'I never imagined I would be the recipient of such an honour.
'To be awarded an honorary degree is a distinction that reflects not just on my work but on the teachers, writers, publishers, booksellers and readers who have supported me on my way. I'm grateful to all of them, and of course, to the University.'
(Image: University of Edinburgh)
McDermid multi-award-winning series and standalone novels have been adapted for TV and radio, most notably the Wire in the Blood series featuring clinical psychologist Dr Tony Hill and DCI Carol Jordan. Her Karen Pirie novels have also been adapted for a major ITV series.
She has written five book series, stand-alone novels, books for children, short story collections and non-fiction titles, publishing over 50 books to date and is a leading proponent of crime fiction and its sub-genre tartan noir and will publish the 8th edition of her popular Karen Pirie series in October 2025.
Theresa Merrick, University of Edinburgh director of communications and marketing, said McDermid has been a champion of writers in Scotland.
She said: 'Today we celebrate and honour Val for her literary prowess and her commitment to speaking out on issues of significance, inequality and social justice.
'She has championed writers, artists and individuals in Scotland and beyond, and has long used her profile and talent to speak for those who may not have such a strong voice.
'We offer congratulations and thanks to Val on all her achievements.'