University of Cumbria class of 2022 graduate at Carlisle Cathedral

Students were celebrating the end of their time at the University of Cumbria and had studied subjects from across the spectrum, including nursing, education and business.

Spread over three days, the ceremonies see degrees and other academic awards conferred upon the gowned graduands, each one watched by a congregation of proud parents, families, and friends who have supported them during their studies.

Each ceremony includes a formal procession into the cathedral with staff and graduates in academic dress with a reception taking place at the Crown & Mitre Hotel immediately after each ceremony.

The University of Cumbria’s Class of 2022, which also includes those who graduated in ceremonies last July, marks the institution’s return to its traditional biannual ceremonies, following the pandemic.

On Wednesday, November 23 the University of Cumbria bestowed its highest honour of an honorary doctorate to Professor Kath McCourt CBE FRCN.

Professor McCourt is the deputy chair at Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, a Fellow of the Royal College of Nursing and internationally recognised as the President of the Commonwealth Nurses and Midwives Federation.

Speaking before the ceremony, Professor McCourt said, “It’s very important and I’m extremely privileged that the University of Cumbria has recognised nursing in this way.”

“The University has produced many caring and compassionate nurses over the years so it’s a very proud day.”

The ceremony began with a special welcome from the Interim Dean of Carlisle Cathedral, Canon Michael Manley who told the graduates to “use their new found influence for good in the world.”

Students had come to the Cathedral from across the country.

Leanne Henderson, Molly Benson and Stacey Mullan had all travelled from Northumberland to be at the ceremony.

“We’re so happy and relived that that it’s finished,” said Leanne, who studied Childhood, Youth and Family Studies.

From left to right: Stacey Mullan, Molly Benson and Leanne Henderson (Image: Isaac Cooper)“We were based throughout the three years in Northumberland and the course was really flexible so we could study after work.

“It’s such a big achievement for me having worked in education for 16 years before this so this accomplishment has given us more drive and ambition.

Carlisle born and bred, Alex Key, who studied Youth and Community studies, was also celebrating his graduation, albeit a year late due to the pandemic.

He said he was “so happy” to finally graduate and that it was “nice to catch up with old friends.”

Since graduating Alex has gone on to work for the affordable food hub and to study a masters in Society and Inequality at the University of Sunderland.

The University of Cumbria choir also performed (Image: Isaac Cooper)Overall 1,200 students who are graduating from the University of Cumbria at nine different ceremonies this week.

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