Northumbria University has awarded Moira Stuart an honorary degree.
Ms. Stuart was the first black newsreader at BBC Radio 4 in 1978. She then became the first black woman to host the national news on British TV three years later.
She was awarded a Doctor of Letters by Newcastle University.
According to the 72-year old, her career has allowed her to "shift barriers" as well as "change so many stagnant stereotypes."
Ms. Stuart accepted her new doctorate during a Newcastle graduation service. She said, "I'm so touched by this honour. Ms. Stuart said that she is deeply grateful to the university for its generosity and grace.
Ms. Stuart began her career at BBC Radio in 1970 as a production assistant in BBC Radio Talks and Documentaries. She then became a BBC Radio 4 announcer and newsreader, and later a programme presenter.
In a span of 40 years, she presented almost every type BBC News bulletin.
She was previously awarded the CBE and OBE in services to media, as well as honorary doctorates at the University of Edinburgh (now Canterbury Christ Church University).
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