Winter graduations get under way

The University welcomed two distinguished leaders to campus as Winter Graduations got under way in celebratory style, awarding honorary degrees to Jason Ferguson, Director of ACF Promotions; and Jonathan Chippindale, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Holition.

The University’s Graduations remain one of the most anticipated events in the academic calendar, bringing together students, families, staff and alumni to celebrate achievement, aspiration and the power of education. This year’s honorary graduates embody the spirit of the Common Good, inspiring the next generation as they begin their own journeys.

Jason Ferguson, a documentary filmmaker, founder of Fuzz TV and Aztec Event Management, and Director of ACF Promotions, has played a key role in supporting his father Sir Alex Ferguson’s philanthropic relationship with Glasgow Caledonian University. His work reflects a longstanding connection between the Ferguson family and GCU’s commitment to social good and community impact.

He told graduands: “My first meeting with GCU was in 2015. I was asked whether I wanted to work together to create something that would help young people believe that attending university was absolutely a realistic option. In the ten years since then, this relationship has helped many people, and it's something I'm really very proud of.

“I recognise the fact that I grew up in a fortunate environment. I was lucky. But I was also lucky to grow up in an environment that taught me the importance of working hard − properly, consistently, and with real commitment.

“This is something we can all do to stand out. It sounds simple, but it is actually very difficult, which is exactly why you will stand out if you do it. That’s basically the best advice I can give you.”

Jason then gave a nod to the Scotland national football team’s recent qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, saying: “Being back here in Glasgow, back in Scotland, it would be remiss of me not to thank a few people. So, in order, Scott McTominay, Lawrence Shankland…”

Jonathan Chippindale is Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Holition, an experiential creative studio combining technology and digital anthropology to deliver projects across luxury, fashion, beauty and culture. Jonathan is also a valued member of GCU’s Fashion Advisory Board, contributing his expertise to the University’s industry partnerships and student experience.

He told graduands: “Graduation marks a milestone that represents far more than a piece of paper. It reflects years of hard work, knowledge, dedication, and the willingness to embrace new ideas, friendships, and independence − hopefully with some fun along the way.

“Today is a special moment, and tomorrow marks the beginning of the next one: stepping into your careers. That prospect can be daunting; it certainly was for me. But you are strengthened by the degree you now hold from Glasgow Caledonian University. The world may feel tough, the challenges relentless and the job market uncertain, but you have already shown the talent, commitment, and enthusiasm needed to shape your future.

“A successful career is rarely linear. It’s an accumulation of experiences − steps that don’t always go in the direction you expect but ultimately lead to a place of fulfilment and pride. Career paths are less about precise direction and more about trajectory; less about what you do, and more about how you do it. Pair your qualifications with energy, curiosity and passion.

“Opportunities will arise in many forms, sometimes disconnected or unexpected. The key is to seize them − don’t sit on the sidelines. As the saying goes, there are no bad decisions, only opportunities to learn. So, take risks. Explore. Let the uncertainty of new beginnings be both exciting and motivating, just as it has been throughout my own unpredictable career.

“Take the next step, build your narrative, and be brave. I can't wait to see the world you will create − and I look forward to living in it.”