Inspiring honorary graduates set the stage for the class of 2023

The University’s summer graduation ceremonies at Glasgow's Royal Concert Hall got under way with a wave of celebration and inspirational messages from honorary graduates.

Alongside nearly 2,700 graduates, who were celebrating their significant achievements, four individuals were bestowed with honorary doctorates.

Stephen Breslin, the Chief Executive Officer of Glasgow Science Centre, received a Doctor of Science in acknowledgment of his exceptional contributions to the fields of science and technology. With more than two decades of experience in the science and engineering industries, his achievements were described by laureator Professor Andrea Nelson as “truly remarkable”.

Stephen said: “The game-changer for me in my career was a move from a commercial industry into a charitable one. Money was no longer the sole driver and purpose of what I did.

“Don’t be afraid to follow your own heart and interests. You have the time. Find something you care about and something that gives you a purpose. If you do this, you’ll find an energy, drive and joy in your work that you will not find anywhere else.”

Lindsay Graham OBE, the Deputy Chair of the Poverty and Inequality Commission, was awarded a Doctor of the University for her unwavering dedication to social justice. Her notable accomplishments in promoting food security in Scotland and beyond have made a profound impact.

She said: “My biggest passion and purpose in life has always been social justice. Human rights matter. The people who have inspired me the most are those who have given their time to others who are less fortunate.

“You folks have been amazing allies in the sometimes-overwhelming task that is tackling poverty in our communities, not just in Scotland, but in other UK nations and beyond. I am most grateful to you and all your brilliant students who have given their time to the research proposals that I kept brining to your door.

“My hopes for a better world and society lie in clever people like you who graduate today. You have earned your degrees through hard work, and during a global pandemic. If any of you are graduating on your own today, come and see me afterwards, because I’d like to give you a great big hug.”

Professors Senga and John Bond were granted a Doctor of Science for their invaluable contributions to nursing, gerontology, and health-services research. Widely recognized as pioneers in their fields, their innovative ideas have significantly influenced research models at Glasgow Caledonian University.

They shared their thoughts, saying: “It really is a great honour to receive this award from Glasgow Caledonian University. As researchers, when we won an award, we always celebrated. But better rewards for us were when our staff achieved.  And nowhere is this more in evidence than here at Caledonian University.”