Looking back to Graduation – New Alumni Newsletter, 2018
Despite biting cold and pouring rain, York Minster and York St John University were filled with a magical atmosphere, when over the course of three days and six ceremonies, 1500 new graduates were proclaimed alongside the 12 inspirational individuals who received honorary degrees. As 2018 marked the centenary of women’s right to vote, York St John University awarded honorary degrees to some of the UK’s most inspiring women: Dr Helen Sharman, the first Briton in space; BBC news presenter Reeta Chakrabarti; paralympian and disability rights campaigner Anne Wafula Strike; Sue Smith, one of the most experienced players in women’s football; and Baroness of the Supreme Court Rt Hon Lady Hale. Honorary degrees were also presented to comedian, transgender activist and charity fundraiser Eddie Izzard, award-winning novelist Matt Haig, BBC Look North presenter Harry Gration, former Vice Chancellor of York St John Dianne Willcocks, CEO of the English National Opera Stuart Murphy and leading business figures Allan Leighton and Carol Kane.
Eddie Izzard on Graduation day.
For three days Lord Mayors Walk, Gillygate and Goodramgate brimmed with excited graduands in the distinctive York St John’s gown and proud friends and family as they made their way to the Minster. The extraordinary Minster setting is part of the unique graduation experience York St John students have enjoyed for nearly thirty years. Part of that experience is receiving your degree from the Chancellor, the Archbishop of York John Sentamu. All York St John students know that if they forget about posing with the traditional picture with the Chancellor, he won’t hesitate to remind them!
My graduation ceremony was on Thursday 22nd November in the morning. As you can see in the picture, I didn’t forget to pose for my picture with the Chancellor.
Nicoletta with Chancellor John Sentamu
Sharing the magnificent Minster scenery with my friends, family, teachers and fellow graduands was a strong emotion and undoubtedly the proudest moment of my life. Graduation day was the coronation of an extraordinary academic and personal experience, and it confirmed that deciding to study at York St John University was the best choice I could have made. The close-knit environment and the community spirit of this University inspired me, empowered me and made me aware of my potential, of my critical voice and of my place in the world. I have made friends for life and memories to which I’ll hold onto forever.
If Graduation day has left you sad that your York St John journey has come to an end, remember that your bond with York St John does not end with graduation. You are now a member of the Alumni community and by keeping in contact with the alumni office, you can stay connected with York St John and with your fellow alumni, and keep up to date with the latest developments at York St John. We are proud that our alumni remain part of the York St John family; they are integral to the success of York St John University.
Nicoletta Peddis
