Gowning up for graduation

Eight ceremonies over four days from 11-14 July will showcase the latest graduate talent - ranging from sport science to psychology, fashion to media technology, and business management to maritime science and engineering.

Looking forward to the week’s ceremonies, Solent’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor James Knowles says, “Graduation is the highlight of our academic year, providing an opportunity for us to celebrate the skills, achievements, and future success of our students.

“I am looking forward to attending my first graduation ceremonies as Vice-Chancellor of such a diverse and inspirational University and congratulating our talented and dynamic graduates. I wish them every success in their future careers.”

Solent University Chancellor, Theo Paphitis, and the Chair of the Board of Governors, Phil Cotton, will also preside over the University’s graduation ceremonies; and graduates will be able to share their experiences with friends and relatives who are unable to attend the ceremony via a live webcast.

The University will also be presenting honorary degrees to academics and professionals who have made an outstanding contribution in their field of expertise. This year’s recipients are:

• Gemma Lacey, Director of Sustainability and Communications at Southern Co-op will be awarded an Honorary Fellowship
• Solent University Graduate, and Managing Director of ThinkEngine, will be awarded an Honorary Fellowship
• Professor David Croisdale-Appleby OBE, a leader in shaping the future of healthcare and social care for the UK, is to be awarded the honorary degree of Doctor of Human Science
• Former Solent University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Karen Stanton, will be awarded the honorary degree of Doctor of the University
• Public policy researcher and strategist, Charles Freeman, will receive the honorary degree of Doctor of Media
• Australian film and television editor, Paul Machliss, will be awarded the honorary degree of Doctor of Arts
• Andrew Macfarlan, Head of Composite Design at Red Bull Racing and Solent University graduate, will receive the honorary degree of Doctor of Engineering
• Lakbir Singh, Global Head of Special Projects at India Business Group (IBG) and Co-Founder & Chief Operating Officer at UK Elite Sports Group will receive an Honorary Fellowship
• Professor Jason Arday, Professor of Sociology of Education at the University of Cambridge will be awarded an honorary degree of Doctor of Arts.