Robinson alumna Drew Chateau (Law, 2018) had special reason to celebrate earlier this week as she joined acclaimed musician and philanthropist Stormzy at Senate House to watch him receive an honorary Degree in Law from the University of Cambridge. 

Drew was one of two students to be awarded the first ever Stormzy Scholarships back in 2018. Stormzy (full name: Michael Ebenazer Kwadjo Omari Owuo Jr) established the scholarships to provide support to black pupils from under-represented backgrounds across the UK to study at the University of Cambridge. The Stormzy Scholarships cover full tuition fees along with a maintenance grant. So far, the scheme, which champions equity and access in higher education, has enabled 40 undergraduates to study at Cambridge. Stormzy’s #Merky Foundation, in partnership with HSBC UK, has grown the scheme to provide scholarships for at least 10 students commencing their studies in autumn 2025.  
 
On completion of her studies and training, Drew now works as a solicitor at a London Law Firm. She shared her praise for the power of the Stormzy Scholarships, saying: “Financial pressures and burdens had placed restrictions on my life and on those around me, which made it difficult to concentrate on education due to the circumstances we found ourselves in. The Stormzy Scholarship helped reduce the gap between myself and those from a more stable upbringing. Thanks to the award, I didn't have to worry about my next meal, how to support my family or even about getting to university each term. While there are always going to be tough times, this made university so much more practical, and enjoyable for me.” 

On her time at Robinson, Drew reflected: "My time at Cambridge was really made by the amazing people who I met and there were people at Robinson College who supported me through my ups and downs, for which I'm incredibly grateful. Particular thanks go to our Chaplain, Rev. Dr. Simon Perry, who was a great advocate for me when I needed it most". 

Keep an eye out for Drew this summer as she will be featured alongside Stormzy and some of the other Stormzy scholars on the BBC’s One Show.

Read more about Drew’s story here 

Find out more about the Stormzy Scholarships at the University of Cambridge and the work of the #Merky Foundation.

Additional information:

The Honorary Degree Congregation is one of the oldest traditions of the University, dating back to the Middle Ages. Held in the historic Senate House, the ceremony sees each graduand presented with a Latin oration detailing their achievements and contributions to society.  The 8 distinguished individuals from the worlds of arts, music, science, sport and politics who were awarded Honorary Degrees this week are:

🎓  Stormzy, acclaimed musician and philanthropist, received a Doctorate in Law, in recognition of his philanthropic work and impact in a number of fields including education, music, sport and literature. 
🎓 Sir Simon Russell Beale, distinguished actor celebrated for his prolific stage, film and television work, received an honorary Doctorate in Letters.
🎓 Professor Angela Davis, eminent American political activist, philosopher and author, who received an honorary Doctorate in Letters.
🎓  Lady Arden of Heswall (Mary Arden), former Justice of the UK Supreme Court, awarded a Doctorate in Law.
🎓 Dame Katherine Grainger, Britain's most decorated female Olympian and Chair of the British Olympic Association, honoured with a Doctorate in Law. She is currently Chancellor of the University of Glasgow. 
🎓 Sir Oliver Hart, Nobel Prize-winning economist from Harvard University, recognised with a Doctorate in Science.
🎓  Professor Maria Leptin, developmental biologist and President of the European Research Council, awarded a Doctorate in Medical Science.
🎓  Sir John Rutter, internationally renowned composer, conductor and former Director of Music at Clare College, received a Doctorate in Music.