Bournemouth University’s 2016 graduation ceremonies have begun, with over 800 students graduating from the Faculty of Media & Communication.
Two ceremonies took place at Bournemouth International Centre with students from over 55 different countries graduating.
Alongside them were two Honorary Doctorate recipients, award-winning advertising and marketing leader Chris Arnold and former High Sheriff of Dorset Jennifer Coombs.
Chris, who received a Doctor of Business Administration, is a former creative director of Saatchi & Saatchi and founder of agency Creative Orchestra and consultancy The Garage.
He said: “It’s absolutely fantastic to be honoured by the university. You’ve got people coming here to study from all over the world and a really diverse group.
“Bournemouth has a very good reputation and the creative economy is thriving, but you have to work hard and it is very competitive.
“You’ve got to be tough, you’ve got to work hard but if you keep going and you’re determined to do something, you can make a success of yourself.”
Former High Sheriff of Dorset Jennifer Coombs, who has also worked as an actress and in the penal system for the area, received an Honorary Doctor of Arts in the afternoon ceremony.
She said: “To the students I would say don’t think that starting small is a problem because it’s the way you learn, and it’s the way you gather more experience. Don’t worry about taking minor footsteps, be brave, have courage, it will work out.”
BU’s Graduation Ceremonies run from 8-11 November, with approximately 3,600 students set to graduate from the Faculties of Health & Social Sciences, Management, Media & Communication, and Science & Technology.
Vice-Chancellor Professor John Vinney said: “A big congratulations to all of our graduating students. I’m so proud of all of their achievements and it’s a fantastic day, both of celebration, and to reflect on their time at BU.”
Chair of the Bournemouth University Board, Richard Conder, said to the graduating students: “As a fellow graduate of this wonderful university, I’m extremely proud to count as one of your number. Have a great day and every success for all you do in the future.”
For more pictures of 2016's Graduation ceremonies, visit our dedicated Pinterest board.
