Over 5,000 students graduated from BU in six ceremonies across four days, with a number of honorary awards given to individuals who have excelled in their field and enriched their communities.

Dame Yvonne Moores became a Doctor of Education as recognition for her career in the nursing industry as England Chief Nursing Officer and former Director of Nursing at the Department of Health.  Dame Moores was also recognised for her contribution to Bournemouth University, acting as Pro-Chancellor from 2006 to 2013.

She said, “It was very thrilling [to receive the award] in front of so many graduates and their families and they all look so wonderfully happy and so pleased of their success so I just felt that I was a part of the whole thing with them enjoying their success, and to have this accolade as well made it even more special.”

Dr Karen Arnold, Chief Executive of The Enterprise and Skills Company, also received an honorary doctorate for her impact as an entrepreneur in the commercial and charitable sectors, and for her contribution to the growth of enterprise in the UK through her teaching.

She said, “I’m speechless, I’m absolutely delighted and it’s a real testament to the University that they would look to reward an ordinary person like me.”

Moores and Arnold graduated alongside around 5,700 BU students, who have moved on to jobs in the media, tourism, retail and health industries amongst others.

Anushka Naidoo graduated with a degree in Communication and Media and now works as communications assistant for the Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership.

She said, “It has been so good to see old friends again, to catch up and find out what exciting jobs they’ve all gone off to. It’s a great chance to come together and celebrate three years of hard work.”

Jasper Taylor works at Sky Sports News as Junior Sub Editor and graduated this week from the Multimedia Journalism course. He said, “It has been a lovely way to end three years at Bournemouth and celebrate everyone’s achievements.”

Professor John Vinney, Vice-Chancellor at Bournemouth University, said: “It is one of the highlights of my year to see a new wave of graduates receiving their awards at our Graduation Awards Ceremonies.

“Many of our graduates have gone on to become successful business leaders and even Oscar winners, and I have no doubt that our latest graduates will also go on to enrich the communities they live in and have successful careers.

“It is particularly good to see so many of our graduates remaining and working in Dorset, continuing to contribute to our local society and economy. Wherever you are, we hope you will keep in touch with Bournemouth University, which will always be a place that its alumni can call home.”

Also receiving honorary awards during the week were Muriel Chalkley, Anne Silk, Dr Peter Barnwell and Treleven Haysom.

Originally posted on the Bournemouth University news page.