Winter graduations celebrations

More than 1000 students from 68 different countries walked across the stage at Younger Hall this week for the University of St Andrews winter graduation ceremonies (Tuesday 28 and Wednesday 29 November).

An internationally famous author, the world’s premier solo percussionist, a leading light in UK theatre, and one of golf’s most highly regarded greenkeepers were also honoured as part of the two-day graduation celebrations.

Scots percussionist Dame Evelyn Glennie CH who, despite a decline in her hearing from a young age, has gone on to enjoy a stellar career in music, including two Grammy’s and a BAFTA nomination. Dame Evelyn was presented with an Honorary Doctor of Music degree at the first ceremony of the two-day graduation celebration. Speaking at the ceremony following her award, Dame Evelyn said: “The immense global challenges that we are all navigating through at this time have magnified the need to listen and to question what true listening really means and how it impacts all our lives.”

World-renowned best-selling author Margaret Atwood joined the international cohort of graduands on Wednesday 29 November, when she was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Letters in recognition of her distinguished career as an award-winning novelist, poet and scriptwriter. 

Addressing her fellow graduates, Dr Atwood said: “Even if you have been dealt a challenging hand, you can play it well or badly. So far you have all played your hands well enough to make it here, that’s a remarkable achievement and you should be proud of it. Of course there will be bumps in the road because there always are. As Samuel Beckett said ‘try again, fail again, fail better’.”

The new graduates celebrated in St Salvator’s Quad following each ceremony, attending the winter Garden Party each afternoon on Lower College Lawn.

Director of the National Theatre, Rufus Norris, received a Doctor of Letters for his contribution to theatre at the afternoon ceremony on Tuesday 28 November.

Author and former Director of Greenkeeping at St Andrews Links Trust, Gordon Moir, was awarded the University Medal at the final ceremony on the afternoon of Wednesday 29 November.

Students braved the icy cold temperatures of St Salvator’s Quad following each ceremony to celebrate their achievements with friends, family and supporters.

Photos from across all four ceremonies can be viewed on our Facebook page and highlights from graduation, including Chirpy the dog, can be seen on our Instagram account.