Students welcomed back to campus for Spring graduations

Spring graduation ceremonies are taking place at Aston University this week to celebrate the hard work and achievements of many of its students - including those from the class of 2020 who were unable to collect their award in person during the pandemic.

Just over 3,000 graduands will be awarded their undergraduate and postgraduate degrees at The Eastside Rooms hotel and conference centre in Birmingham.

Friends and family of the graduates around the world will be able to watch the ceremonies on a livestream link.

The graduands will officially process in the presence of Aston University 's Chancellor, Sir John Sunderland and interim vice-chancellor, Saskia Loer Hansen, before an audience of graduating students and their families in 15 ceremonies over the course of the week.

Saskia Loer Hansen said: “Graduation day is an important milestone in the life of every one of our students.

“It is a time to look back on the achievements and experiences gained over the course of their studies, but also an occasion to appreciate the wealth of opportunity that now lies before them as Aston University graduates.

“I am delighted to be able to welcome some of our class of 2020 back to campus for their graduation ceremonies. Seeing so many students, parents and friends celebrating the success of the graduating cohort is always a highlight of the year.

"But this year it is particularly important that our graduates of 2020 can come back and receive their honour in person, following the restrictions imposed on us by the COVID-19 pandemic."

Aston University will also be awarding honorary degrees to public figures and individuals who have distinguished themselves in a particular field or profession, or who have given meritorious service to the University.

This year 's recipients are Gymshark founder Ben Francis, Zimbabwean-born British surgeon Professor Sir Bruce Edward Keogh, healthcare leader Gaurav Brahmbhatt, distinguished academic Professor Robin Grimes, Institute of Global Homelessness chair Louise Casey, Baroness Casey of Blackstock, KPMG partner Fiona Fry, Chung Ying managing director James B Wong, Pertemps Network Group board director Dr Carmen Watson and Lotus Cars CEO Phil Popham.