University of Winchester Graduation 2025 got underway in the imposing surroundings of the city’s historic Cathedral on Tuesday.
The first to don their grad rags, caps and gowns this morning were graduates of the Faculty of Business Design and Technology followed by those from Law, Crime and Justice.
Guests in the cathedral were welcomed by Pro Chancellor Maggie Carver CBE Dl for the first two ceremonies of the day and by Fellow Pro Chancellor Mohamed Bakhaty for the third.
Honorary Fellow Judge Angela Morris, the Recorder of Winchester (centre) flanked by Pro Chancellor Mohamed Bakhaty Vice-Chancellor Professor Sarah Greer
During the last ceremony of the day Her Honour Judge Angela Morris, the Recorder of Winchester received an Honorary Fellowship.
The Role of Recorder, which she has carried out for four years, is a ceremonial one which recognises and cements the relationship of the council with the law courts as an important part the life and economy of Winchester.
Angela who has a had a rich and varied career as an advocate and a judge is passionate about widening participation in the law has supported several Law and Criminology events at the University.
She warned her audience that their chosen carer paths were unlikely to be linear and there would be many ‘bumps in the road’ but they should not treat these bumps as obstacles but as opportunities to be embraced.
The Judge closed with these words of advice: “Never let anyone tell you that you don’t belong – all of you belong in your chosen careers.
“Be brave but never reckless. Be judicious but not judgemental.
“Believe in yourselves and your ability. Your degree is a testament to your abilities and your achievements over the last three years.”
Vice Chancellor Professor Sarah Greer closed the ceremony, telling the Class of 2025: “Be proud of yourselves and the discipline in which you have graduated…You can be confident you are well equipped to navigate life’s journey.”
New for this year’s ceremonies are gowns with microchips linked to a photographic system which snaps their picture of each graduate when they are on stage. The photos are then available to view at the post-ceremony celebration zone in the Guildhall.
There will be 11 ceremonies this week expected to attract 8,000-plus graduates and guests.
All the ceremonies are streamed live and links can be found at Graduation - University of Winchester
Photos by Dominic Parkes Photography
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