He received his honorary degree during the University’s summer graduation ceremony at the Brighton Dome on 26 July. He was presented by Professor Chris Pole, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University.
Speaking at the awards ceremony, Des Lambert said: “Encouraging young people and giving them the opportunity to develop their education, especially progressing to Higher Education, has always been important to me and I am very grateful to the University for honouring me with this award.”
Des graduated with a degree in Agriculture from Wye College, London University in 1970. His working life has been spent in agriculture and specialist land-based education.
Following periods in practical agriculture he joined the staff of Plumpton College in East Sussex. As well as lecturing, he was Farms Director for fifteen years and Principal from 2000 until his retirement in 2015.
Under his leadership the College expanded and diversified its provision, with specialist degree provision including Viticulture and Oenology.
In 2015 he was awarded an OBE in recognition of his services to land-based education and young people.