UHI graduates celebrate success at Highland graduation ceremony
Today marked a major milestone for Highland graduates as more than 1,100 family members, friends, and staff gathered at Eden Court Theatre for the UHI graduation ceremonies.
The celebrations honoured years of hard work for graduates - including those whose studies began amid the challenges of the pandemic.
Professor Chris O’Neil, Principal and Chief Executive of UHI Inverness said their achievements were “nothing short of inspiring.”
“You have faced challenges that no one could have foreseen,” he said. “Some of you started your journey with us just before or during lockdown restrictions. But each of you has your own story of challenge and engagement, and I’m always amazed at the resilience that our students demonstrate.”
Professor O’Neil also thanked local employers and industry representatives who have supported students throughout their studies.
“Such ongoing collaboration strengthens the bridge between education and industry, ensuring that our graduates are equipped with the skills needed to thrive in today’s interconnected world,” he said.
Ross-shire Paralympian cyclist, Fin Graham MBE, was also present at both ceremonies and addressed the graduates.
“I want to encourage you to pursue what truly matters to you,” he said. “Don’t just chase titles or trends, chase the things that light you up, the ideas that keep you awake at night, the challenges that make you want to grow.”
He added: “Passion will carry you further than any plan ever could. But remember success isn’t a solo journey - stay connected to the people and places that shaped you.”
A highlight of the day was the conferral of an honorary doctorate upon Patrick Mullery, founder of the James Support Group, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to mental health and community wellbeing across the Highlands.
Patrick, from Cromarty, was honoured alongside his daughter Dorothy, who graduated with an HND in Beauty Therapy at the same ceremony.
He told the graduates: “Whether through your career, your community, or even a single conversation, you have the ability to bring light where it’s needed most.
“Life will bring its challenges – that is certain. But it will also offer moments of great joy, connection, and purpose. Embrace them all. Use your skills, your compassion, and your courage to build something that matters, something that reflects who you truly are.”
A number of special awards honoured exceptional achievement among students and staff.
Ashti Ali was named UHI Inverness Student of the Year 2025, while psychology lecturer Mari Todd received the Most Engaging Online Delivery award in the Highlands and Islands Students’ Association (HISA) Awards.
Ava Walsh and Rachel Hives were both presented with Sporting Blues Awards for their outstanding achievements in sport.
Other prizewinners included;
Thomas Inglis, 23, from Dingwall, a Graduate Apprentice who graduated with a first-class BEng (Hons) Civil Engineering, received the Institution of Civil Engineers
Kirsty Ross-Baker, 22, from Dornoch, accepted the Royal Scottish Geographical Society (RSGS) University Medal for being the outstanding graduating honours geography student at UHI.
Zoe Nicoll, 23, from Keith, who studied BA (Hons) Criminology, was presented with the Stewart Fraser Social Science Dissertation Prize for producing the best social science dissertation at UHI.
HISA president Xander McDade said: “It’s been such a brilliant day celebrating everyone’s hard work and achievements.
“There’s also a real sense of pride and excitement about what comes next for them all. Every graduate and award recipient has put in so much effort to reach this point, congratulations to them all.”