Over 1,000 students are celebrating this week completion of their undergraduate degrees and postgraduate studies at the University of Cumbria.
Three days of graduation ceremonies are taking place from today until November 27 celebrating student achievement, university awards and honorary conferments.
Those who have studied at the university’s campuses in Carlisle, Ambleside, Lancaster and London will travel to Carlisle for the ceremonies, as will those who have studied in their workplaces, via distance learning or through degree apprenticeships routes.
These newly acquired higher-level skills have been gained across areas including education, arts and society, science and environment, industry, business and leadership, and health.
The graduation ceremonies take place in the city’s 900-year-old cathedral as multi-million-pound improvements continue in Carlisle city centre.
Alongside student successes, the university will confer honours on a number of people who have contributed significantly to Cumbria.
Today, David Beeby DL will be given an Honorary Fellowship in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the Cumbrian economy and the charitable sector.
He grew up on a Nottinghamshire dairy farm and began his career as a Chartered Accountant before moving into industry. He spent 50 years in the print and packaging sector, relocating to Cumbria in 1987 to lead Smith Brothers (Whitehaven) Ltd.
Later, as CEO of Innovia Group, he oversaw global expansion and the development of polymer banknote technology for the Bank of England.
Beyond business, David has held numerous leadership roles in charitable and economic organisations, including chair of Cumbria Community Foundation, where he launched the Better Tomorrows Programme to improve youth provision across the county.
He has also served as High Sheriff of Cumbria and continues as a Deputy Lieutenant.
At a ceremony tomorrow, Wednesday, David Williams will be awarded an Honorary Doctorate, the university’s highest honorary award for his contribution to Cumbria.
David Williams, founder and CEO of global experiential learning and leadership development organisation Impact, is a celebrated inspirational leader and visionary.
Its global headquarters are housed in the restored at Kelsick Grammar School, coincidentally where David lived and trained as a teacher during his days at the Charlotte Mason College – now the University of Cumbria’s Ambleside campus.
On Thursday Colin Glover will be awarded an Honorary Fellowship recognition of his lifelong and outstanding contribution to civic, cultural and community engagement in Cumbria.
Colin served six years as leader of Carlisle City Council, where he guided the city through the 2015 floods and secured major investments such as the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal and St Cuthbert’s Garden Village.
Later, during the 3pm ceremony, Jayne Moorby MBE, head of marketing for Ulverston-based Oxley Group, will be awarded an Honorary Fellowship in recognition of her lifelong service to industry and outstanding contribution to skills development and community engagement in South Cumbria.
University of Cumbria Chancellor, the Most Reverend and Right Honourable Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell said: “It is a joy and an honour, as Chancellor, to take part in the University of Cumbria’s graduation ceremonies in the inspiring setting of Carlisle Cathedral.
“This special occasion celebrates the hard-earned achievements of more than a thousand students across a rich variety of disciplines – from education, the arts, and business, to forestry, project management, and vital health professions such as nursing, paramedic practice, physiotherapy, and social work.
“Many have balanced study alongside work and family life, often through distance or workplace learning. I am delighted to join with others in recognising their remarkable commitment, academic success, and the hope and promise they carry into the future.”
Professor Julie Mennell DL, Vice Chancellor of the University of Cumbria, said: “We are thrilled to be celebrating the achievements of our 2025 graduates. Across our university and partner institutions, we are immensely proud of their dedication and commitment in earning their degrees, professional qualifications, and awards.
“It is wonderful to welcome such a range of graduates, from our region and campuses, to international graduates and those who have balanced their studies alongside work and other life commitments.
“Graduation is the culmination of their hard work and we are very proud of them all.”
