The structural engineer who designed The Shard has been awarded an honorary degree by Northumbria University at the education establishment's winter graduation ceremonies.
Roma Agrawal is best known for designing London's landmark 95-story high skyscraper and the tallest building in Western Europe. However, her first job following her graduation was to design and build the footbridge that crosses the Central Motorway in Newcastle.
Installed in 2007, the bridge links Northumbria University's east and west city campuses, aiming to provide a safe pedestrian and cycle route from Shieldfield into the centre of Newcastle. Roma, who is also an author and broadcaster, was awarded the degree of Doctor of Science in recognition of her outstanding career as a leading female structural engineer, as well as for her work in striving to promote engineering, scientific and technical careers to young people and under-represented groups.
