Students celebrate academic triumphs at Wrexham University spring 2025 graduation ceremonies
Date: Thursday, April 17, 2025
More than 1,900 students donned their caps and gowns to celebrate their academic achievements during this week’s graduation ceremonies, held at Wrexham University.
Graduates crossed the stage of the William Aston Hall to receive their awards, after years of hard work and commitment to their studies.
Following the formal ceremonies, graduates toasted their successes alongside their family, friends and lecturers, enjoying a festival-style celebration with live music, food stalls and outdoor games.
The spring graduation ceremonies were also a particularly special occasion for the University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Joe Yates as they are his first since joining the institution last August.
Professor Yates said: “Graduation is an immensely special time for all at the University – it’s a time when we celebrate with our graduates and their families and friends, and an opportunity to recognise the hard work and academic achievements of our students.
“I look forward to hearing from our graduates in the coming months and years ahead, as they take their next steps and go onto accomplish outstanding things. We wish them every success for their futures.
“For me personally, these have been my first set of graduation ceremonies as Vice-Chancellor of Wrexham University, so it’s been particularly memorable for me. It’s been a real privilege to congratulate and celebrate our students and Honorary Fellows this week.
“Moments like these truly reflect the heart of the University’s vision – empowering our students to thrive, make an impact and contribute meaningfully to their communities and industries, both locally and globally.”
Throughout the course of the week, graduates shared their personal triumphs and biggest achievements, while studying at Wrexham.
Marianne Rolland, Occupational Therapy graduate
Among the graduate success stories were that of Occupational Therapy graduate, Marianne Rolland, who works as an Occupational Therapist (OT) for Powys County Council’s Social Care team.
She said: “I feel absolutely amazing today – it’s been quite the journey to get to this point, so I’m not afraid to say I feel proud of what I’ve achieved.
“I was fortunate enough to have been supported by my employers to do my degree, so it was definitely a juggle combining work, study and home life – and there were so many times, when I questioned whether I could do it all, so I feel delighted to be standing here now as a qualified OT.
“I must say – the support I received from my tutors was fantastic, they were incredibly supportive throughout. As someone who went to university for the first time 25 years ago, compared to now – my experience as a mature learner was much better. Studying at Wrexham has been brilliant.”
Counselling graduate, Simon Shorrock
Counselling graduate, Simon Shorrock hailed his time at university as “life-changing”.
“It’s been a great experience, I feel delighted to have completed the course – and I’m now excited for what’s to come. I’m wanting to utilise what I’ve learnt to hopefully go onto support children and also young people in Further Education,” he said.
“University has been truly life-changing for me personally, and going onto study counselling actually came about through life-changing events in my own life, that put things into perspective. Since that point, I’m wanting to make a difference in helping others, who need it.”
Damini Damini, who achieved her Masters in International Marketing Management, said: “I’ve loved every minute of my time here at Wrexham and I’m so happy to be graduating today. I’ve learnt so much during my Masters, it’s also instilled so much confidence in me.
“I now have big ambitions for the future – in five years’ time, I hope to be a CEO, I’m aiming high and I’m excited.”
Computer Science graduate, Tommy Griffiths
Computer Science graduate, Tommy Griffiths said he is looking forward to his next steps in embarking on a career in the field of Information Technology (IT).
“University has been fantastic – my lecturers have been great and I’ve learnt a huge deal about my subject. It’s definitely put me in good stead for a career in IT. I’m in the process of applying for jobs at the moment, so today is a nice break from that – and I’m pleased to be graduating with a 2.1,” he said.
Olivia Ashcroft, who graduated after studying Animation, said: “I feel so happy to be here today after a brilliant three years studying at Wrexham.
“I’ve loved my course, it’s been incredibly fun and has equipped me with a fantastic grounding for my future career. My dream is to get into the film industry or cartoons.”
From left, Amaka Uzoka and Maxine Golbourne, who both graduated this week with a Masters in Public Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing.
Amaka Uzoka, who graduated with a Masters in Public Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing, added: “I’m very excited to be celebrating having successfully gained my Masters, it’s been a lot of hard work to get to this point. My lecturers have been wonderful throughout my studies, they said it’s my resilience that’s pushed me through.
“I’m pleased to now be working supporting people with mental health needs. I feel that I have gained a great deal from my studies and it’s informed how I approach my role.”