Graduation Classes of 2020 & 2021

9 Oct

Hats off to classes of 2020 and 2021 during annual Graduation ceremonies.

Hundreds of guests witnessed over 200 students gain higher education qualifications at the University of Suffolk at West Suffolk College graduation ceremony.

The occasion took place at St Edmundsbury Cathedral in Bury St Edmunds on Saturday 9 October.

This year, two ceremonies were held recognising the achievements of those who graduated in both 2020 and 2021. The 2020 celebrations could not take place due to the pandemic.

A total of 210 students graduated in a range of subjects and courses – 100 with first class honours and 29 with distinctions in their foundation degrees.

“I am incredibly impressed by our student’s achievements. They have shown optimism, resilience and ambition – which not only paves the way for their future success, but will inspire future undergraduates as they continue their learning journey.”

Dr Chris Meredith, Executive Dean of University Studies at West Suffolk College, said:

“We know that our graduating classes of 2020 and 2021 have overcome extraordinary circumstances to be here today. More than ever, after an extremely difficult 18 months, this is now the time for all of us to celebrate and honour their accomplishments.”

Eleven prizes were awarded to inspirational students who were nominated by tutors for their outstanding achievements during their studies.

During the ceremonies, The Very Reverend Joe Hawes, Dean of St Edmundsbury gave a welcoming address followed by speeches from Dr Nikos Savvas, CEO of the Eastern Colleges Group (including University Studies at West Suffolk College), Tim Greenacre, Chief Operating Officer at University of Suffolk and Dr Christopher Meredith, Executive Dean of University Studies at West Suffolk College.

Dr Nikos Savvas, CEO of the Eastern Colleges Group (which includes West Suffolk College, Abbeygate Sixth Form and One Sixth Form), said:

During the first ceremony, Rachel Snape gave a speech to the class of 2020, acting in her role as an Honorary Fellow. In the second ceremony, Professor Andy Neely OBE, the Pro-Vice-Chancellor of Enterprise and Business Relations at Cambridge University, inspirationally congratulated the class of 2021 on their collective successes.

This year’s honorary graduate was named as Rachel Snape – a Headteacher and National Leader of Education.

On receiving this award, Rachel said: “I am truly honoured to have been awarded an Honorary Degree from the University of Suffolk.

The University’s impressive mission for individual, societal and global transformation through high quality education, chimes deeply with my own and the University’s aim to change lives for the better is inspiring.”

“I am very grateful to the Vice-Chancellor for this nomination. I am very proud to be the recipient of this wonderful award and to have a connection with such a fantastic centre of learning. Thank you.”

After the ceremony, guests and graduates enjoyed drinks and canapés prepared by the award-winning Edmunds restaurant and West Suffolk College Catering and Hospitality students in the historic grounds of the Cathedral.