The University of West London kicked off a three-day graduation celebration at Twickenham Stadium, where students came together to mark their academic achievements. Over the course of the event, 13 distinguished individuals from the community were awarded honorary degrees for their outstanding contributions.
Among the recipients was Anthony Capuano, the President and CEO of Marriott International, who received an Honorary Doctor of Letters for his leadership of the world’s largest hospitality company. Another honoree was Sam Liu, the founder of the Tech Start apprenticeship programme, who was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Business Administration for his efforts in providing opportunities for local youth.
Chris Gallant, a Senior Manager at NatWest, also received an Honorary Doctor of Business Administration for his work in leading an engagement programme with thousands of colleagues. These individuals serve as inspiring examples for the graduating students, showcasing the impact that dedication and hard work can have on a community.
During the ceremony, Professor Peter John, Vice-Chancellor and President of UWL, emphasized the importance of gratitude and recognizing those who have supported the students on their academic journey. He also highlighted the university’s recent expansions, including the opening of the School of Medicine and Biosciences, the Hellenic Institute of Maritime Studies, and the Digital Futures Lab.
The Digital Futures Lab, in particular, will focus on cutting-edge research in Artificial Intelligence, machine learning, and digitalization, providing students with valuable opportunities to explore these emerging technologies. Additionally, the university will soon launch courses in e-Sports and e-Sports events, catering to the growing interest in this dynamic industry.
As the graduation celebrations continue, students have the chance to reflect on their accomplishments and look towards the future with optimism. The honorary degree recipients serve as a reminder that hard work, innovation, and dedication can lead to success in both academic and professional endeavors. The University of West London remains committed to providing its students with the tools and resources they need to thrive in an ever-changing world.