Winter graduations conclude
A trio of exceptional individuals were awarded honorary degrees as Glasgow Caledonian University's winter graduation ceremonies concluded at Glasgow's Royal Concert Hall.
University alumnus Stephen Clark, Global Senior Director of Product Merchandising at Jordan Brand/Nike Inc, was awarded a Doctor of Business Administration.
He told graduands: “This University will always hold a special place in my heart. It’s where I grew the most. You, too, have done the hard part. You have one foot in the door to the world now. Don’t put too much pressure on yourselves to choose the right path right away.
“The world is getting smaller thanks to technology. Use that to your advantage. Get your hands dirty and don’t be afraid to take chances.
“Be a team player. Leaders don’t need to have all the answers but they do need to work well with all types of people. Remember, you can lead from the back as well as the front.”
Group Chief Executive Officer of global construction consultancy Currie and Brown, Alan Manuel, received a Doctor of Engineering for his distinguished 40-year career in the industry.
He said: “When I welcome new graduates into my business, I am often asked what advice I can give them, and I always offer two.
“Work hard to become a real expert. Be one of the best in your chosen field. If, like me, you see yourself moving into a management position, having that solid technical background will be crucial to your success.
“Secondly, a graduate should always be annoying, well just mildly annoying, but annoying nonetheless! Ask questions, and ask more, because that is the quickest and best way to learn.”
Jim Rowan, President and Chief Executive Officer of Volvo Cars, received a Doctor of Engineering. He shared his personal connections to Glasgow and the University, emphasising the value of education, hard work, and respect instilled by his “blue-collar family”.
He said: “Our parents instilled in us that, with a good education, a strong work ethic and having genuine respect for other people, ‘the world is your oyster’. But the second part of that Shakespeare quote is, ‘which I with sword will open’.
“For me, that has always meant that opportunities may present themselves, but, when they do, you need to act, and act decisively.”
He also offered graduands eight key pieces of advice for success, including commitment, collaboration, communication, compassion, continuous learning, confidence, consistency, and courage.
More than 2,000 graduands crossed the stage during the winter ceremonies.