6 QMYOU / Graduation
Dementia campaigner and children ’ s charity founder receive honorary degrees
GRADUATION IS A wonderful spectacle and provides an incredible platform for us all to celebrate the success of our graduating students .
Aside from the achievements of our 850 students , the 2015 graduation was particularly memorable for several reasons . We had two inspirational honorary graduates - leading dementia campaigner Henry Simmons , and the founder of an art therapy charity for children with chronic illness , Laura Young . However , one person , who has for many years added to the excitement of graduation , is our chancellor Sir Tom Farmer . The much loved Scottish entrepreneur and founder of Kwik Fit was inaugurated as the founding Chancellor of Queen Margaret University when the institution was granted full university title in 2007 .
Over the years , Sir Tom ’ s rousing speeches and deep-felt commitment to QMU ’ s work has brought the University to the attention of the business community , philanthropists and sporting heroes both in Scotland and overseas . However , it has been his ability to connect with an audience , particularly his entertaining and passionate speeches at the University ’ s graduation ceremonies , which earned him a place in the hearts of staff , students and graduates . After eight years serving as University Chancellor , Sir Tom is stepping down from his position . The July 2015 ceremony was the last graduation he will attend in his role as Chancellor . His presence , energy and humour at future graduations will be missed by everyone who knows him . ❒
The 2015 Honorary Graduates
HENRY SIMMONS , CHIEF EXECUTIVE of Alzheimer Scotland Action on Dementia , was awarded an honorary doctorate in recognition of his work in improving the lives of people living with dementia . Henry has been involved in developing a model which is transforming lives
L-R Laura Young , Sir Tom Farmer and Henry Simmons
and altering the way we think about people with dementia . This approach has received much international recognition placing Scotland at the forefront of dementia practice .
As a leading light in the field of dementia , he was presented with the Degree of Doctor of the University , Honoris Causa . With a flagship in health and rehabilitation , QMU was delighted to recognise his tireless work in campaigning for the rights of people with dementia and their families and in establishing a community-based and person centred approach to dementia . Earlier this year , Alzheimer Scotland and QMU signed a strategic partnership aimed at improving its healthcare students ’ understanding of dementia , ensuring they are more effective as professionals when they move into the workforce .
Henry worked closely with the Scottish Government on the development of the National Dementia Strategy , convincing the Deputy First Minister at the time , Nicola Sturgeon , to make a world-first commitment and guarantee that every person with
6 QMYOU / Graduation