UHI Inverness Graduation: A day of special moments and inspiring words
GRADUATES and award winners celebrated their academic achievements with friends, family and staff at the UHI Inverness graduation ceremonies today (Friday).
More than 1,100 people attended the two ceremonies at Eden Court Theatre in Inverness. A total of 813 higher education students were eligible to graduate from UHI Inverness this year. Students celebrated success in a range of higher education qualifications including Higher National Certificates, Higher National Diplomas, degrees and postgraduate programmes.
Professor Chris O’Neil, Principal and Chief Executive of UHI Inverness, told them:
“You have faced challenges that no one could have foreseen. Some of you started your journey with us just before or during lockdown restrictions. But each of you has your own story of challenge and engagement, and I’m always amazed at the resilience that our students demonstrate, You are nothing short of inspiring.”
He also paid tribute to local employers and industry representatives for the unwavering support that is instrumental in shaping the student experience.
“Our many partners have not only offered placements that have enabled our students to apply their learning in real-world settings; but have also shared their expertise and resources with us. Such ongoing collaboration strengthens the bridge between education and industry, ensuring that our graduates are equipped with the skills needed to thrive in today’s interconnected world.”
Ross-shire Paralympian cyclist, Fin Graham MBE, addressed the graduates at both morning and afternoon ceremonies. He reflected on his own experience and congratulated them, saying:
“As you move forward, I want to encourage you to pursue what truly matters to you. Don’t just chase titles or trends, chase the things that light you up, the ideas that keep you awake at night, the challenges that make you want to grow. Passion will carry you further than any plan ever could. But remember success isn’t a solo journey. Stay connected to the people and places that shaped you. Your community will keep you grounded, remind you where you came from, and help you see how far you’ve come.”
Patrick Mullery, founder of the James Support Group, received an honorary doctorate from the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) for his outstanding contribution to mental health support and community wellbeing across the Highlands.
Patrick from Cromarty was honoured alongside his daughter Dorothy who graduated with an HND in Beauty Therapy at the same afternoon ceremony.
He told the graduates:
“Whether through your career, your community, or even a single conversation, you have the ability to bring light where it’s needed most. Life will bring its challenges – that is certain. But it will also offer moments of great joy, connection, and purpose. Embrace them all. Use your skills, your compassion, and your courage to build something that matters, something that reflects who you truly are.”
A number of special prize winners were also honoured during the event.
Awards were given to UHI Inverness Student of the Year 2025 winner Ashti Ali and UHI Inverness psychology lecturer Mari Todd, winner of the Most Engaging Online Delivery category in the Highlands and Islands Students’ Association Awards.
Graduate Ava Walsh and current student Rachel Hives were also presented with their Sporting Blues Awards in recognition of their outstanding achievement in sport.
Rachel Hives and Xander McDade
Thomas Inglis (23) from Dingwall, a Graduate Apprentice who graduated with a first-class BEng (Hons) Civil Engineering, received the Institution of Civil Engineers Student Prize.
Kirsty Ross-Baker (22) from Dornoch, accepted the Royal Scottish Geographical Society (RSGS) University Medal for being the outstanding graduating honours geography student at the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI).
Zoe Nicoll (23) from Keith, who studied BA (Hons) Criminology, was presented with the Stewart Fraser Social Science Dissertation Prize for producing the best social science dissertation at UHI.
HISA president Xander McDade said: "It’s been such a brilliant day celebrating everyone’s hard work and achievements. Seeing our graduates recognised for all they’ve put in over the years has been really special. There’s also a real sense of pride and excitement about what comes next for them all. Every graduate and award recipient has put in so much effort to reach this point. Congratulations to you all.”
