UHI Moray graduates are celebrated at packed Elgin Town Hall event
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UHI Moray's class of 2023 were celebrated with Elgin Town Hall packed out for two graduation ceremonies on Friday.
There was a slight twist to the event this year. Not all students have received their results – due to industrial action – so it was instead labelled a 'Graduation and Celebration of Success and Achievement event'.
Fochabers Fiddlers played on stage as students, along with proud family members, took their seats at the town hall.
UHI principal David Patterson praised the "resilience and commitment" of students, and acknowledged that some had not yet received results.
"I have the deepest of respect for the students of UHI Moray here with us," he said.
"We live in difficult and unusual times and after the worst of the Covid pandemic and then the cost-of-living crisis.
"You have also had to contend with industrial action this year, which has meant that we have still not been able to confirm some of your marks and results.
"Nevertheless, this should still be a very special day for you and for those who have come here to celebrate with you.
"We are celebrating the completion of your programme of study with us, and all the learning and success you have had along the way.
"You have all shown remarkable resilience and commitment to earn your place here. So celebrate your success and enjoy it."
The guest speaker on the day was Ewen Mackintosh, managing director at Gordon & MacPhail, who talked about his career in the whisky industry.
However, the speaker that received the biggest and loudest reception was Buckie-based student Jonathan Lester Heady.
Jonathan is autistic and, five years ago, struggled with everyday tasks such as getting on the bus. After a few years at UHI Moray, including six work experience placements, he's thriving.
"Before I came to UHI Moray, I was ever so stressed about going to unfamiliar places and meeting new people," he said.
"But eventually I was able to amass so much confidence that I'm able to come up on stage and deliver this somewhat decent speech to you all!
"In 2018, I was unable to take the bus by myself I was so anxious. I was shy, nervous and withdraw. But I later found out about the incredible opportunities that UHI Moray had to offer.
"On behalf of all student at UHI Moray, I'd like to thank all the lecturers and staff members who made this graduation ceremony the best one in history."
