GCU summer graduations celebrate students’ success
Glasgow Caledonian’s summer graduation ceremonies got underway today, celebrating the success of our students and distinguished leaders who were awarded honorary degrees.
Our graduations remain one of the most anticipated and joyful events in the academic calendar, bringing together students, families, staff, alumni and esteemed guests to celebrate achievement, aspiration and the power of education.
At today’s ceremony three inspirational leaders from business, charity and forensics were honoured.
Experienced business leader and former Chair of GCU’s Court, Rob Woodward CBE, was awarded an Honorary Degree of Doctor of the University. Between 2018 to 2025, Rob helped to guide our University and champion its widening participation mission. His illustrious career has also included 11 years as CEO of STV Group with previously held senior roles at Channel 4, UBS Warburg and Deloitte Consulting’s telecoms, media and technology business. He has chaired major organisations including the Met Office and Developing the Young Workforce, and currently holds a number of non-executive chair roles across the media, education and technology sectors.
Speaking at today’s ceremony, Rob Woodward CBE congratulated graduands and said: “You stand at a pivotal moment, on the threshold of decisions that will shape all of your futures. Your GCU degrees has equipped you with a strong foundation. Now is the time to think boldly, embrace opportunity, and step outside your comfort zone. Do not fear failure - what matters is that you learn, adapt, and keep moving forward. Embrace the future.
Corinne Hutton MBE was awarded an Honorary Degree of Doctor of the University. Corinne is the founder of pioneering amputee charity Finding Your Feet, established after she survived life-threatening sepsis in 2013 which resulted in the loss of her hands and lower legs. Since then, she has become Scotland’s first double hand transplant recipient and completed challenges including climbing Ben Nevis and Mount Kilimanjaro as a quadruple amputee. Through Finding Your Feet, which has raised more than £5 million, Corinne has supported thousands of amputees and their families. She is also helping shape disability education within GCU’s health and life sciences programmes.
Addressing graduands at the Royal Concert Hall, Corrinne said: “I am flattered, honoured and humbled to receive this award today.
“You have worked so hard to be here. Look at what you have done and the hurdles you have overcome – I commend you. You are now the captain of your own ship - you can choose your direction, you will weather storms, and you need to also look after your crew.”
An Honorary Degree of Doctor of the University was presented to Robert McNeil MBE, a former Anatomical Pathology Technologist who worked with international forensic teams documenting evidence of genocide in Bosnia between 1996 and 2002. He later became an ambassador and trustee for Remembering Srebrenica Scotland, supporting education and remembrance work linked to the atrocities. An accomplished painter and author, his artwork and memoir Grave Faces draw on his experiences in conflict zones and have been exhibited across the UK, including in the Scottish, English and Welsh Parliaments.
Upon receiving his honorary degree, Robert said: “I am deeply grateful for this award. It is a significant personal honour to have my forensic work, artwork, and ongoing efforts with Remembering Srebrenica recognised by the GCU.
“I’d like to congratulate all of you, new graduates, on your hard work and achievements, and to wish you all success in the future. Whatever your chosen career, never forget the lecturers here at GCU who motivated and inspired you.”
This year’s summer graduations include five ceremonies run over three days at Glasgow’s Royal Concert Hall. Thank you to everyone who has worked hard to make these celebratory events for our students and esteemed guest such a success.