Former world squash champion and community health advocate Dame Susan Devoy will receive an honorary doctorate from the University of Waikato next year.

Dame Susan won the British Open Squash title eight times between 1984 and 1992, was World Champion four times, and at 34 was made a Dame Companion of the New Zealand order of Merit.

Dame Susan Devoy.

University of Waikato Vice-Chancellor Professor Roy Crawford says Dame Susan is a very worthy recipient of an honorary doctorate.

'She has achieved in so many different areas, and displays qualities of excellence, energy and commitment and sets herself high standards – all qualities that we encourage in our students. 'She's also one of New Zealand's greatest sportswomen.”

Since retiring from professional play, Dame Susan has worked for a number of community and national organisations in either paid or volunteer positions.

She will have her honorary doctorate conferred at the University of Waikato's graduation ceremony in Tauranga in April 2013.