Double Celebration for Don Whitley

Continuing to make his mark in his 80th year, Don Whitley has been awarded an honorary Doctor of Science degree by the University of Bradford. This was conferred at a graduation ceremony on 15 July. Don has a long list of his achievements in the field of applied microbiology, the most notable of which include the new technologies designed and manufactured by his company Don Whitley Scientific Ltd. The award is also in recognition of his support, over many years, to the university’s Division of Biomedical Sciences.

This includes intercalation training and employment opportunities provided to undergraduate students and his contribution as Chair of the Advisory Board in Biomedical Sciences. The Shipley-based company that Don founded in 1976 now owns subsidiaries in Germany and Australia and sells to more than 40 other countries worldwide, through its carefully chosen distributor network. With over 10 per cent turnover spent on new product development, Don Whitley Scientific has rapidly grown to be a leading supplier of innovative microbiology equipment.

The company also provides contract microbiology services from their GLP-compliant laboratories Commenting on his reaction when he was informed about the honorary degree, Don said: “I was very surprised and deeply honoured. These emotions were quickly joined by the realisation that it is the love and encouragement of my family and the interaction with so many wonderful associates and colleagues throughout my career that has made this possible. I am very appreciative.” Don continues to be highly regarded by the microbiology industry, and his business now incorporates three generations of his family. Paul Walton, Don’s eldest son and Managing Director, concluded: “There can be few microbiologists in the world who have not used something in which Don has had a hand.”