5,000 graduates are set to pick up their Open University degrees at 21 ceremonies held by the University across the four nations this Autumn.
Part of The Open University family
For Professor Mary Kellett, Acting Vice-Chancellor, the degree ceremonies are always a highlight of the university year:
“I’d like to say a huge congratulations to every graduate. I’m so proud of you and what you’ve achieved. You are the reason we do what we do, and these ceremonies allow us to take the time to celebrate your well-deserved successes. You may not have studied together in the same classroom, but you are all part of The Open University family.”
A strong sense of pride
For many Open University students, the degree ceremony signals the culmination of years of hard work and sacrifice to achieve a dream. Mary says that – even after a half-century of its existence – the sense of pride in The Open University is as strong as ever:
“The OU started its journey nearly 50 years ago. The technology and fashions may have changed since those beginnings, but the joy on the faces of our graduates as they cross the stage to receive their award is timeless.”
Imagine what’s next
“Like many of you graduating this autumn, I took a leap of faith with my career,” Continues Mary Kellett. “After many years as a social worker, then full time parent, I invested in my education and discovered my passion for research. I didn’t for one moment imagine it would lead to heading up a national institution like The Open University.”
“So, my advice to you would be – continue to follow your dreams and passions; just imagine where they could lead you.”
