Forensic science and game design leaders honoured

Two leaders in their fields − renowned forensic anthropologist Professor Lady Sue Black and visionary games developer Jon McKellan − were awarded honorary degrees by Glasgow Caledonian University as our summer graduation ceremonies began at Glasgow’s Royal Concert Hall.

Professor Lady Sue Black, Baroness Black of Strome, received a Doctor of Science in recognition of her outstanding contributions to the scientific field of forensic anthropology and to academic leadership. One of the most distinguished forensic anthropologists in the world, her career has seen her apply science in service of justice across some of the most challenging global crises of our time.

From her ground-breaking work identifying victims in Kosovo and Iraq, to her efforts following the 2004 tsunami in Thailand, Lady Black has used her expertise to bring truth and closure to devastated communities. Alongside her scientific impact, she is a compelling public communicator and bestselling author, as well as a champion for education and charitable causes, including Archaeology Scotland, Locate International and E2M.

In her address to the graduands, Lady Black reflected on the power of education as both a personal lifeline and a social force. “Education is a weapon,” she said. “And you have the responsibility, when you hold that weapon, to decide how you will use it.” She urged graduands to look back at the people who made their journey possible − teachers, mentors, family members, even unlikely sources of inspiration − and to carry forward that legacy by lifting others.

Drawing on her own formative experiences − including overcoming bullying as a teenager in Inverness and working three jobs while studying at university − she credited her success to the support of those who believed in her when she didn’t yet believe in herself. “You have achieved it,” she told graduands. “But you have not done it alone − and none of us do.”

Lady Black closed with a powerful reminder of humility and gratitude: “The higher up you go in your careers, and you will − please don't forget the people climbing the ladder behind you. Be kind, be selfless, be gracious. Celebrate today, but above all else, please remember to say thank you.”

Joining her in being honoured was Jon McKellan, an innovator in the creative industries and a major figure in the UK’s booming games sector. He was awarded a Doctor of Technology in recognition of his outstanding commitment to innovation in games development and industry leadership, and his support for the next generation of games development talent.

As founder of Glasgow-based No Code Studio, Jon has led the development of critically acclaimed titles such as Observation and Stories Untold, earning four BAFTA awards. His earlier work includes major contributions to Alien: Isolation and Red Dead Redemption 2.

A passionate advocate for new talent, Jon has helped shape Glasgow Caledonian’s top-rated games programmes, regularly mentors students and employs many of our graduates. His involvement in initiatives such as the Global Game Jam has helped foster a dynamic ecosystem of innovation and opportunity.

Speaking to graduands from creative and technical disciplines, Jon offered reflections on the future of storytelling, the value of collaboration, and the importance of staying curious.

His message focused on reframing self-doubt as a sign of passion: “If you're worried about what you do next, it means you care about what you do next.”

The Glasgow native also spoke movingly about imposter syndrome and a moment of self-recognition while working on a major franchise project in California: “I told them I didn’t feel like I should be in that room. And they said: ‘If you’re in the room, you deserve to be there.’ Well − you’re in this room today. You deserve it. So, go make something great.”