Paisley Abbey was abuzz with activity last week as students descended on the historic building to mark the end of their academic journey.
The University of the West of Scotland (UWS) graduations saw more than 1,800 students from the university don their capes in special end of course ceremonies at the abbey between Monday, July 4 and Friday, July 8.
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Graduates from the University’s four academic Schools – Business & Creative Industries; Computing, Engineering & Physical Sciences; Education & Social Sciences and Health & Life Sciences joined their peers in celebrating their academic successes.
Dr Lucy Meredith, Interim Principal and Vice-Chancellor, said: “It has been wonderful to celebrate graduations, acknowledging the hard work and dedication of our graduates, as they reach an incredibly significant milestone in their educational journey.
"The hard work and determination they have shown to achieve their academic award is nothing short of inspirational and I wish each of them every success in the future.”
Also, there were honorary degrees handed out to entrepreneur John McGlynn, Wai Beyond founder Dr Waiyin Hatton and public servant Sally Kuenssberg CBE.
Scottish Capital founder John McGlynn is a serial entrepreneur, who started his first business at the age of 21. Since then, he has set up more than 80 new ventures.
John said: “I am both humbled and delighted to receive an Honorary Doctorate from the University of the West of Scotland. It is nothing short of a privilege to be part of this incredible milestone in the lives of so many students.”
Dr Waiyin Hatton established Wai Beyond to inspire and nurture greatness in individuals and organisations following an impactful career in the healthcare sector. Previously, she was Chief Executive of NHS Ayrshire and Arran. She is chair of West College Scotland, the Colleges Scotland Board and the charity Action Against Stalking, championing the voice of people affected by the crime.
Dr Hatton said: “It is surreal to be awarded the Honorary Doctorate from the University of the West of Scotland, alongside graduates who have spent years of blood, sweat and tears working for their degrees. I feel immeasurably privileged in becoming a UWS alumni.”
In a career focussing on children and young people, Sally Kuenssberg worked in the Scottish juvenile justice system for 20 years, training members of the Children’s Panel before serving as the first chair of the Scottish Children’s Reporter Administration. She also chaired the Yorkhill NHS Trust and served on the Greater Glasgow and Clyde Health Board.
Among many voluntary activities, Sally has been a Trustee of Save the Children and a governor of several schools. She was awarded a CBE in 2006 for services to child welfare and justice.
She said: “I am incredibly proud to have been made an honorary graduate of University of the West of Scotland. Graduation is a time of celebration, and I look forward to being part of what will be a special day for the class of 2022.”
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