The STRONGMAN brothers, Tom and Luke Stoltman, gave graduates a boost today with inspiring stories of how they overcame obstacles to become world beaters.
The Invergordon siblings – who can call themselves the strongest brothers in the world – were guests at the UHI Inverness graduation and awards ceremony which made a welcome return to Eden Court.
There were among many Ross-shire graduates and were themselves honored with special presentations.
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The Stoltmans praised and congratulated the graduates, saying, “It’s always great to see people in our community working hard to achieve success. We wish them well for the next chapter and whatever the future holds.
At the event attended by over 800 people, graduates celebrated success in a range of higher education qualifications including Higher National Certificates, Higher National Diplomas, Diplomas and Postgraduate programmes.
Professor Chris O’Neil, Principal and Chief Executive of UHI Inverness, said: “This joyful event reminds me of the important role UHI Inverness plays within the Highland community.
“Our local communities need skilled and talented people like our graduates who have shown incredible resilience and determination in extraordinary times. I know they will continue to make us proud, knowing that all at UHI Inverness wish them good luck.”
During the ceremony, Iain Macneil of Aviemore, Managing Director of Witherby Publishing Group, one of Scotland’s largest publishing houses, received an honorary doctorate from UHI.
Iain, who joined the Merchant Navy at the age of 16, overcame his own difficulties with dyslexia to help thousands of others around the world do the same through the development of training software.
Sporting Blues, awarded by the Highlands and Islands Student Association (HISA) and UHI to recognize outstanding achievement in sport by students and graduates, was presented to Tom and Luke Stoltman (Honorary Blue), Alexander Mackay – Athletics (Full Blue) and Luke Davidson – Athletics and Morgan Gray – Equestrian (Half Blue).
Professor Melanie Smith, Vice-Principal – Teaching and Research, and Professor Vicky Johnson, Director of the Center for Living Sustainability, both from UHI Inverness, were also recognized for receiving the titles of Professor of Biodiversity,
Conservation and Education and Professor of Childhood, Youth and Sustainability, respectively, at UHI.
William Campbell, President of the Highlands and Islands Students’ Association at UHI Inverness, said: “I would like to thank all of the new alumni at UHI Inverness for working hard to get to where you are today. today.
“You are all an inspiration to all our new students; your success will motivate them to pursue and succeed in their own studies. Good luck in your future endeavors and don’t be a stranger, you are all part of the UHI family Inverness.”
Inverness and Area Provost Glynis Sinclair said: ‘Behind every graduating student are families, friends, partners and supporters who have given their help and encouragement to see you through to this day. . I thank you all for your studies and your efforts and wish you the best in your future careers.
“It’s a very proud day for everyone.”
The graduation was followed by a celebratory reception at UHI Inverness, Inverness Campus.
