Graduation 2016

The photos have been taken, the bubbly drunk and memories created that will last forever. Our alumni community is another 2,500 members stronger as we celebrated Graduation in our 50th year from 11 - 14 July 2016. Led by the Chancellor, Pro-Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor, staff from across Brunel came together to congratulate our graduates on their success.

The event was lent an even more impressive atmosphere this year with the opening fanfare performed by London Fanfare Trumpets, a group of musicians drawn from both military and professional backgrounds. Dressed in full regalia and displaying flags with the Brunel crest, they provided a memorable way to open and close the ceremonies.

Honorary degrees and fellowships were awarded to an array of notables, including Brunel alumni Heather Fell and Greg Whyte, and former Director of the Arts Centre, Jay Wilkinson. The ceremonies also saw numerous prizes awarded, and a special award for Arthur Toomer, our oldest ever undergraduate, who received a standing ovation on collecting his Vice-Chancellor's Student Award.

This year, one of our awards celebrating the achievements of our alumni community - Alumnus of the Year - went to Tim Backshall. Tim, a design graduate whose company has consistently employed Brunel graduates and placement students, had an inspiring message for our 2016 graduates in his acceptance speech:

“Believe in yourself and what Brunel has borne in you - be confident in the learning you've gained and the way this has already shaped you. Don't be afraid to take responsibility - employers want people who are pro-active, good listeners, able to take feedback and criticism, but not afraid to take on more and more responsibility. Don't hide behind email or social media - recognise the value of your own personality and the importance of meeting face-to-face in whatever career you move into... business is all about relationships.”

Special moments from the week were captured in a range of photos, so do take a look at our Flickr and Facebook albums to see our graduates in all their glory.

Congratulations to all our 2016 graduates and newest members of the alumni family - we’re so proud of you!

More Alumni news can be found in the News page or in the Archive.