A week of joy as University of London students celebrate their graduations

A week of joyous celebration has drawn to a close with the last of three days of University of London graduation ceremonies.

More than 1,300 students from 113 different countries - from Afghanistan to Zimbabwe - gathered at Friends House on Euston Road on 13, 14, and 15 July to mark the successful completion of their studies. These were the first in-person University of London graduation ceremonies since before the pandemic.

Recordings of each ceremony are available on the University's YouTube channel.

Our Chancellor, Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, attended the morning ceremony on the 14th.

"It is a pleasure to be here today to celebrate your achievements", Her Royal Highness said. "I sincerely hope that today will be a memorable occasion for you, your family and your friends, and that you will enjoy your well-deserved celebrations. My congratulations to you all."

"I am thrilled to offer my heartfelt congratulations and good wishes to all our graduates for reaching this important milestone", Vice-Chancellor Wendy Thomson said to our newest alumni. "Receiving this award is the culmination of years of your hard work and dedication. For our graduates and your loved ones, today is an opportunity to come together and rejoice in your success. Some of you may be reflecting on what you want to do next, while others will have already moved on to further study or employment. But whatever your next step may be, I hope you will take the time to enjoy this precious moment and take pride in what you have achieved."

Three extraordinary individuals who embody the diversity and values of the University of London received special recognition during the week.

Helen Rees OBE was awarded an Honorary Degree. She is an internationally recognised global health practitioner who has dedicated her career to improving public health in Africa, with a focus on vaccine-preventable diseases, HIV, and sexual and reproductive health. 

Tim Foster MBE was awarded an Honorary Degree. He is a former international rower whose many achievements include winning a gold medal at the 2000 Olympics in Sydney. He is now a successful rowing coach.

Pamela Roberts was awarded an Honorary Fellowship. She started work as a junior administrator at the University more than 40 years ago and retired as Director of Student Recruitment and Enrolments, University of London Worldwide. 

“Although their achievements are in very different areas, Helen Rees, Tim Foster, and Pamela Roberts are all extraordinary individuals who have had an immense impact on their fields", Vice-Chancellor Wendy Thomson said. "My sincere congratulations to Helen, Tim, Pamela, and the many University of London students whose achievements and hard work are being recognised this week.”