Held over four days from 25–28^th July, twelve ceremonies were held in the grounds of Putteridge Bury for graduates from the faculties of Education, English and Sport, Creative Arts, Technologies and Science, Health and Social Sciences, and the Business School, to celebrate and mark the end of their hard work.

On Monday 25^th July, Bedfordshire’s Class of 2022 were also joined by  a famous face from the music and television industry, as Bedfordshire-raised Faye Tozer – a singer-songwriter, best known as a member of pop group Steps – was presented with an Honorary Doctorate of Arts in recognition of her outstanding services to entertainment.

Speaking upon receiving her award, Dunstable-raised Faye said: “I feel very privileged to receive this Honorary Doctorate and, from growing up in the area, it’s so amazing to be recognised for the work that I’ve done but also to try and inspire students and graduates.”

About entering their careers and next steps after graduating, Faye said to her audience: “Be hungry for it. Don’t be afraid to try new things and make mistakes – be different and don’t be afraid to be you!”

The special guests didn’t stop there, with former Royal Air Force (RAF) pilot and Prisoner of War, John Peters, collecting an Honorary Doctorate of Education in recognition of his services to broadening opportunities for education in leadership and management. Since leaving the RAF, John has recently worked with MBA and BSc Aviation students at the University of Bedfordshire and has been working with the Business School to develop short courses for those seeking to move from the forces into civilian careers.

On receiving his award from Professor Andrew Church – Pro-Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation – John said: “I feel extremely humbled to receive an Honorary Doctorate. It was unexpected and it’s rather bowled me over, so it’s lovely.”

In his advice to fellow graduates, he continued: “Look beyond your limitations and plan your story. Learning is a communal experience – however clever we are as an individual, we are better as a group. We are so much brighter together, so enjoy sharing your learning with your colleagues and friends, and celebrate what you have achieved today.”

Alongside the presentation of Honorary degrees, the Putteridge Bury ceremonies also featured a number of speeches from Guests of Honour, including Grazia magazine’s Rhiannon Evans; Dr Rima Makarem from Bedfordshire, Luton, Milton Keynes Integrated Care Board; Luton Rising CEO Graham Olver; and HHJ Marianna Catherine Thoroton Hildyard QC.

A very special award was also presented to Radio LaB student manager Toby Crabb who, alongside graduating with a degree in Radio and Audio, also received the award for Student Engagement, presented by Dr Joan Bailey MBE on behalf of HM Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire.

The Putteridge Bury ceremonies follow the University’s Bedford Civic Ceremony, held last week (22^nd July) for the first time since 2019. The summer graduation ceremonies will conclude with a Luton Civic Ceremony on Friday 29^th July.