BGU students celebrate Graduation at prestigious Lincoln Cathedral

Our graduation celebrations took place on Wednesday 30th and Thursday 31st of July, over four ceremonies. 

Colleagues and students, alongside their family and friends, attended the graduation ceremonies in Lincoln Cathedral, located in the uphill quarter of Lincoln. 

This year, over 900 students from various academic disciplines were eligible to graduate, including undergraduate, master’s, postgraduate, doctoral programmes and apprenticeships, with over 600 students donning their robes to cross the stage in Lincoln Cathedral.

We also presented Honorary Awards to individuals recognised for their exceptional contributions to the University, education and society. 

Among the Honorary Doctorate awardees was former Bishop Grosseteste student and now, inspirational speaker, Jaz Ampaw-Farr, alongside Caroline Killeavy – a Senior Leader within the not for profit, charity and public sectors. Jaz said: “With BGU running through your veins, you’re set for a new chapter. What you have achieved can never be taken away and who you are to become has not even been revealed to you yet – whatever happens next, you belong, not only to your family and friends but to the University.” 

Neil Leitch OBE, celebrated for his contributions to highlighting the importance of early years within the national education sector, also received an Honorary Doctorate. 

Dr Stephen Hopkins, a previous lecturer of BGU with a distinguished career in education, leadership, and governance, received a Distinguished Honorary Fellowship.  

Opera Singer, Vocal Coach and former BGU student, Thomas D. Hopkinson, received an Honorary Fellowship for his contributions to the University. 

This year's ceremonies were overseen by Chancellor, Professor Tracy Borman OBE and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Andrew Gower. 

Andrew said: “For those graduating, I would like to wish you many congratulations on your achievement – this is major personal success which is rightly yours to celebrate. Given the significance of your success, I can think of no better place to graduate than Lincoln Cathedral. 

“As a university with values inspired by an Anglican foundation, our partnership with Lincoln Cathedral is not only a source of pride but is also a reflection of a shared commitment to serving the public good and progressing social purpose.

“It would be fair to say that completing a higher education qualification is an opportunity, but also, a challenge. On behalf of all our graduates, I would like to offer my thanks to all colleagues, and our Students’ Union, who go the extra mile in supporting our students.

“With the future firmly in mind, as Vice Chancellor of the university, I offer our graduates my warmest congratulations!”