He praised her for the way she had “embraced her role as a committed public servant with grace, compassion and tireless energy” since her marriage to the King, pointing out that she was patron or president of more than 100 charities.
“Her commitment to the promotion of literacy and literature stands out as testament to her personal passion and belief in the transformative power of books,” Sir Mark added.
“It is only fitting that this honorary doctorate of literature recognises Her Majesty’s exceptional efforts to advance literacy and education not simply as a public duty but as a personal mission inspired by a lifelong love of reading.
“Her Majesty’s work has touched countless lives and will continue to inspire future generations of readers and writers.”
The university has held the ceremony every year since 1903 to mark its Foundation Day, the anniversary of its establishment by Royal Charter in 1836.
Previous recipients of the honorary doctorate include George V and Queen Mary (the Prince and Princess of Wales at the time), Winston Churchill, TS Eliot and Dame Judi Dench.
The Queen has long championed a love of reading and is patron of several literary charities including the National Literacy Trust and Book Aid International.
A voracious reader, she established an online book club in January 2021 after receiving an overwhelming response to recommended reading lists she posted on Instagram during lockdown.
The initiative, which celebrates books and authors from all over the world, later became the Queen’s Reading Room charity and has grown into a global community in which book lovers can engage and debate.
She was joined by four others recognised for their exceptional contributions to society.
Honorary doctorates of science went to Dr Nahim Ahmed (for social sciences) and Prof Sir Michael Arthur (for medicine); an honorary doctorate of laws went to Anthony Neoh; and Abdul Fazal Bhanji became an honorary fellow.
Princess Anne has served as the university’s chancellor since 1981, when she took over from her grandmother, Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother.