Hull College’s annual Graduation Ceremony saw Tim Rix CBE, Chief Executive of J R Rix & Sons Limited, awarded an Order of Distinction in recognition of his outstanding achievements and support to education, business and communities in the city of Hull and the county of East Riding of Yorkshire.

Rix studied engineering at Hull College, developing practical skills that served as the foundation for a highly successful career. He became the fifth generation to lead the Rix family’s diverse group of companies which are involved in shipping, fuel distribution, manufacturing static caravans, property and selling cars.

Founder and lead promoter of the Lagoon Hull project, Rix has been active in the local community for many years and devotes a great deal of his energy and passion to support the city of Hull and the surrounding region. He is a leading figure in the local and regional business community and was awarded a CBE for services to the economy and regeneration in the Humber in the 2018 New Year's honours list.

Hull College's Chair of Governors, Rob Lawson, presented the award to Rix at the college's Graduation Ceremony on Wednesday 30th November 2022.

Reflecting on receiving the inaugural award, Tim Rix CBE said: “I was extremely honoured and humbled to receive such a prestigious award from the college and proud to be included in the graduation day and to celebrate the successes of all the students. I would like to take the opportunity to congratulate all Hull College Class of 2022 graduates on achieving academic success and also wish them the very best of luck in the future. I also hope to see them put their new qualifications to good use to support the local area.”