Glasgow Caledonian University celebrates New York milestone

The first postgraduate students at Glasgow Caledonian University's New York College have celebrated the completion of their studies.

The Commencement Ceremony, held at the weekend, is a tradition within the American university system. The event celebrated the achievements of the founding class at New York's newest College and recognised the founder of the United Nations Global Compact, Dr Georg Kell, with a Lifetime Achievement Award.

Glasgow Caledonian New York College (GCNYC) became the city's first international institution to receive degree-granting authority in June 2017 with the first Masters students in International Fashion Marketing starting later the same year. The College currently has 58 students enrolled in postgraduate programmes in fashion marketing, business and risk management.

Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU) Vice-Chancellor and President of Glasgow Caledonian New York College, Professor Pamela Gillies CBE FRSE, said: "I am delighted to be celebrating with our Masters students in what is an historic first ceremony for a New York College supported by a values-led foreign University with a Charter to deliver degree programmes. Like the staff, students, graduates and alumni of its supporting partner institution GCU, the GCNYC community of scholars and staff is focusing its education and research to deliver social benefit for the common good."

GCNYC's Vice-President, Cara Smyth, said the ceremony was another significant milestone for the College. "Our research-based Master of Science programmes are designed for the next generation of responsible leaders in their sectors. Our students are purpose driven corporate statesmen and women with the skill sets and networks to be global change makers. This being our first year as a degree-granting authority in New York, we are extremely proud of our founding class and look forward to keeping them engaged as alumni." 

The University's Chancellor, Dr Annie Lennox, met with staff and students at the campus last month and praised their focus on developing socially responsible solutions for the challenges facing business and society. She also praised the world-changing mission of GCNYC's Fair Fashion Centre which aims to bring ethical and sustainable practices to the business of fashion.