The first set of Dundee University graduation ceremonies took place on Wednesday, seeing hundreds of degrees and qualifications conferred on students at the city’s Caird Hall.
Honorary degrees were awarded to campaigners Amanda Kopel and Dr Charles Jencks, recognising the great efforts each has made for their chosen charities.
In the morning, newly qualified teachers and educators were handed degrees, diplomas, masters and doctorates and in the afternoon it was the turn of the artists and designers.
During his opening address, Professor Sir Pete Downes talked about the importance of widening participation in higher education, and talked about his personal experience of the difficulties some face when considering going to university.
Dr Charles Jencks was given an honorary degree to recognise the work he has done with his late wife in setting up Maggie’s Cancer Care Centres.
A total of 20 Maggie’s Centres provide care and support for cancer sufferers and their families, including the award winning Frank Gehry designed centre in Dundee.
Amanda Kopel has campaigned tirelessly for the introduction of Frank’s Law, which aims to end age discrimination against those under 65 who are suffering from a degenerative brain disease.
Her husband, Dundee United legend Frank Kopel, was diagnosed with dementia when he was 59 before he tragically passed away aged 65.
The Kopel’s, like others who are struck with a degenerative brain illness under the age of 65, had to pay for Frank’s care themselves.
Implementing Frank’s Law would see that changed, so that anyone under 65 who is suffering from an illness like dementia does not have to suffer financially.
She said: “I feel truly over the moon, completely humbled and honoured. I could never have imagined being awarded something like this.
“My sons and I have always joked about me having the gift of the gab, but I am very much speechless at the moment.
“I hope that the people making the decisions are witnessing just how many people are getting behind the campaign.
“The campaign has done well across Tayside, but I still think that more still needs to be done to make the campaign more well-known nationwide.
“I really hope that being awarded this degree will help, and more people will be able to find out about Frank’s Law.
“I can’t thank Dundee University enough, they really are at the forefront of institutions in the country. I really do commend them for everything that they have done.”
