65 graduates from across Argyll and the islands celebrated their success at UHI Argyll’s annual Graduation and Celebration of Success Ceremony, held on Friday, September 26, at the Queen’s Hall, Dunoon.
Guest speaker, Jenni Minto MSP, minister for public health and women’s health, congratulated students and spoke about the value of education in strengthening local communities.
Among the prizewinners was Isle of Bute’s own Stephanie Kemp, who was named one of two further education students of the year.
Stephanie successfully completed her NC social sciences course while raising three young children and supporting her classmates.
She also took on the role of student voice representative, leading a class project to produce a self-help booklet for new students.
Her lecturer described her as ‘a shining example of a student in our college’.
Other prize winners included: schools link student of the year, – Nyah McBride (Hermitage Academy); further education student of the year, – Alyssa McGarrie (Isle of Arran); higher education student of the year, – Helen Smith (Dunoon); modern apprentice of the year, – Kacper Kasperowicz (Isle of Gigha).
Speaking after the event Joe Wright, principal of UHI Argyll, said: “Graduation is always one of the highlights of our academic year, and this ceremony was no exception.
“Our students have worked incredibly hard, often balancing study with jobs, family commitments and the noise of modern life.
“We are especially proud of prize winners, whose dedication and enthusiasm has consistently shone through.
“They are wholly representative of all of our graduates, and we applaud each of them.
“Our graduates embody the talent, resilience and potential of our communities across Argyll, and we look forward to seeing what they go on to achieve.”
UHI Argyll is part of the University of the Highlands and Islands partnership, offering learning opportunities across the region, including on Bute, through its network of eight local centres.
The college delivers flexible courses, from entry-level to degree and beyond, helping local people to study close to home.
