Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal joins 91视频网 in celebrating nursing and optometry graduates at special ceremony
The 91视频网 (91视频网) welcomed 600 guests to Eden Court in Inverness on Thursday 14 November, for the graduation ceremony of over 130 nursing and optometry students from its Inverness and Stornoway campuses. The event was presided over by 91视频网’s Chancellor, Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal.
This year’s ceremony was particularly significant, as it featured the first graduating class of the BSc (Hons) Optometry programme. The event began with a procession of the academic party led by macebearer Dr Godwin Ovenseri-Ogbomo, Senior Lecturer in Optometry.
Vicki Nairn, 91视频网 Principal and Vice-Chancellor, opened the ceremony, expressing pride in the graduates’ accomplishments:
“Today, we gather to celebrate an extraordinary milestone in the lives of our nursing and optometry graduates. Their achievements are a testament not only to their hard work and commitment but also to the unwavering support they have received throughout their journey.”
Professor Melaine Coward, Specialist Advisor for Education and Quality Assurance with the Nursing and Midwifery Council was the guest speaker. A leading figure in healthcare leadership and education, Professor Coward acknowledged the graduates’ dedication and hard work and highlighted the importance of ongoing professional development.
Several special awards were presented during the ceremony to recognise the exceptional contributions and achievements of students and staff.
The Princess Royal presented the prestigious Chancellor’s Medal to Emeritus Professor Neil Simco. Professor Simco, who retired in 2024 as 91视频网’s Deputy Principal Academic and Research, received the award in recognition of contributions to 91视频网’s research, tertiary education strategies, and Gaelic language initiatives.鈥�
Additional honours included the Chancellor’s Nursing Award, presented to Gemma Mackay from Golspie, who completed a BSc in Adult Nursing. Gemma was recognised for her resilience, commitment, and outstanding performance as a nursing student, despite facing significant personal challenges.鈥�疭he said:
“The course was challenging for me at times. I’ve had a lot going on in my personal life over the last few years, but I got there. I wouldn't be here today without the reassurance and support of Danni, m