Sandi Toksvig honoured by her old college

Sandi Toksvig has been made an honorary fellow of Girton College, Cambridge, in what she said was ‘one of the best days of my life’.

She read law, archaeology and anthropology at the college – which was set up as an women-only institution before going co-ed in the 1970s – where she got a first.

The QI host was one of five women, described as ‘pioneers of excellence and achievement’ to be given the honour to mark the college’s 150th anniversary.

The others were Princess Hisako Takamado of Japan, physicist Professor Dame Pratibha Gai, cellular pathology consultant Dr Suzy Lishman and Dame Karen Pierce, Britain’s ambassador to the UN in New York.

Professor Susan Smith, the college’s mistress said: ‘An honorary fellowship is the highest distinction Girton can award, the warmest hand of friendship it can extend. It is a great privilege to welcome these remarkable women into the college community. We look forward to celebrating both the difference they have made in the world, and all that their election – their wisdom and experience – will do to enrich the life of the college.’

At my old college Girton in Cambridge with the Mistress, Susan Smith, where I had the honour of being made an Honorary Fellow yesterday. Celebrating 150 years of women’s education as well as the contribution of the LGBTQ+ community. One of the best days of my life. pic.twitter.com/u9dQfJfgUm

— Sandi Toksvig (@sanditoksvig) May 10, 2019

Published: 10 May 2019