Published: 02 August 2023
Three graduation ceremonies took place during late July as over 1000 students crossed the stage to complete their journey from St George’s student to St George’s alumni. Hosted at the Barbican Centre in central London, the first ceremony took place on Thursday 20 July with a further two on Wednesday 26 July as the class of 2023 celebrated all they have achieved during their time as students of St George’s.
A joyous occasion for all in attendance, the ceremonies began with introductory remarks from Students’ Union President, Ayesha Patel, and concluded with speeches from St George’s, University of London Vice-Chancellor, Professor Jenny Higham and Chair of Council, Christine Swabey.
In her opening remarks, Ayesha said, “Congratulations on your outstanding accomplishment of graduating from St George's. Remember too that you are part of a community of outstanding people who have been moulded by their time at St George's; I hope this will inspire you as you set out on a new path.
You have the potential to transform the world by applying your abilities to improve healthcare in local communities and the wider globe.”
- Ayesha Patel -
Vice-Chancellor Jenny Higham said, “Huge congratulations to those of you graduating. I know how hard you have worked to get here. I am sure there were times during your studies when you thought this day would never come!
“I have the privilege of seeing the range of activities that take place at our university day in, day out. From world-class research to an outstanding educational experience, I am incredibly proud of the work done by the St George’s community. I hope you will share in that sense of pride as you reflect on your achievements today.”
Christine Swabey added: “You should be enormously proud of all you have accomplished and enjoy this moment of celebration. Take today to pause and congratulate yourselves and the family and friends who have supported you throughout your time at St George’s.
“I have no doubt that the resilience and dedication which have brought you to this point will propel you towards success. The broader your experience the better it will be, so take advantage of every opportunity.”
- Christine Swabey -
A message from this year’s winner of the Vice-Chancellor's prize
Senior Clinical Lecturer in Primary Care Education and Associate Dean for Culture and Development, Dr Ban Haider, was awarded the Vice-Chancellor's Prize this year in recognition of sustained commitment to addressing discrimination and inequalities in education. Addressing our Medicine and Physician Associate graduates in their ceremony on Thursday 20 July, she said: “I truly believe that we have some of the most innovative and inspirational students, who have been the catalyst for positive change.”
Our Honorary degree recipients
Dr Jim Bush - Fellowship of St George’s
Dr Jim Bush is a Clinical Pharmacologist at Labcorp, a leading global life sciences company. Dr Bush has been instrumental in establishing Labcorp work experience placement opportunities for students on the BSc (Hons) Clinical Pharmacology at St George’s. This scheme sees six-week placements for six second year students, giving them meaningful hands-on experience within a functioning clinical research facility. Twelve-month industrial placements are also offered, providing students the opportunity for full-time positions with Labcorp on graduation.
Professor Beverley Harden MBE FCSP - Doctor of Science (DSc)
Professor Beverley Harden is the Deputy Chief Allied Health Professions Officer for England, and Health Education England’s Allied Health Professions Lead. Professor Harden has led a variety of large multi-professional healthcare services, NHS trust education services and complex service and workforce transformations across systems as national advisor to the NHS England New Models of Care team. Professor Harden is a Fellow of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy, and in recognition of her services to healthcare, she was awarded an MBE in the King’s 2023 New Year Honours list.
Welcoming our newest graduates to the alumni community
We encourage all of our graduates, new and old, to keep in touch with us, let us know about their achievements, and take advantage of all the benefits which come with being a member of the St George’s alumni community.
Congratulations once again to the Class of 2023!