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Robert Gordon University graduations: Meet four of Thursday’s graduates

Graham Hunter
Picture Graham Hunter/DCT Media
Graham Hunter Picture Graham Hunter/DCT Media

Graduation week might be nearly over, but the celebrations were still in full swing at the P&J Live today.

From nurses and midwives, to life scientists and sports coaches, scores of hard-earned degrees were handed out by the Robert Gordon University today.

Two honorary degrees were also presented, first to public health expert Duncan Selbie, who was given a doctor of science (DSc) and secondly to Aberdeen-born sports journalist and author Graham Hunter.

Mr Hunter, renowned for his knowledge of Spanish football, said it was “affa fine” to be recognised for his contribution to sports journalism.

To see who else is celebrating this week, use our interactive tool to check the full list of graduations.

Each day we’re shining the spotlight on four of the day’s graduates from the north and north-east.

Footballer Zack Ellis has graduated in sports coaching from RGU. Picture Chris Sumner/DCT Media

Aberdeen

Former Highland League footballer Zack Ellis is celebrating a win of a different sort today: his graduation.

The 22-year-old, who now plays for junior club East End, has earned himself a BSc in sports coaching from the Robert Gordon University.

Mr Ellis, from the city, plans to keep coaching part-time with the Aberdeen youth academy and the Scottish Football Association while also working as an external engagement coordinator for sports at NesCol.

Lena Forsyth was determined not to let her illness hold her back – and already has landed a job with NHS Grampian. Picture 

Aberdeenshire

Lena Forsyth certainly has not let her chronic illness hold her back, after picking up a first class honours – with distinction – in applied biomedical practice today.

The 21-year-old has already secured a job with NHS Grampian as a biomedical scientist, and is looking forward to the future.

The former Mintlaw Academy pupil loved her course, and said: “It gave me everything that I was looking for in a university, everything was really interesting.”

Katrina Cruickshank, a full-time nurse at Dr Gray’s Hospital in Elgin, picked up her third degree from RGU today. Picture Chris Sumner/DCT Media.

Moray

Dr Gray’s nurse Katrina Cruickshank picked up her third degree today – 24 years after she first walked through RGU’s doors.

The 42-year-old was awarded an MSc in advancing nursing practice – which she completed amidst the pandemic – and is already considering what course she might do next.

In the meantime, she will continue her role as an advanced nurse practitioner in orthopaedics.

Leanne Kelday said she does not think she will ever move back to Orkney after enjoying her time in Aberdeen so much. Picture Chris Sumner/DCT Media.

Highlands and islands

Leanne Kelday is looking forward to getting started at her new job helping Aberdeen’s homeless.

The 24-year-old Orcadian – who admitted the move to the Granite City was tough at first – graduated today with a first class BSc in applied social sciences, which she believes will help her understand some of the challenges people face.

The Childline volunteer said: “Understanding the reasons behind certain situations that many people face fascinates me. I knew this degree would help me towards my dream job.”

Don’t miss: Graduations Gallery

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