
Sir Jim McDonald awarded Glasgow's prestigious Loving Cup
The Lord Provost of Glasgow, Jacqueline McLaren, presented the award to Sir Jim for his "extraordinary contributions to education and learning, engineering and civic leadership," both in Glasgow and beyond.
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The Loving Cup is one of the highest accolades given by the city, bestowed upon individuals or organisations who have brought distinction and honour to Glasgow.
Sir Jim joins other celebrated recipients, including the Princess Royal, the Lisbon Lions, the Archbishop of Glasgow, and Francie and Josie.
He said: "I am very touched and deeply honoured to receive the Loving Cup and to be recognised by the city that has shaped so much of my life and career.
"Glasgow has always been at the heart of my personal and professional journey, and to have played a role in its educational, engineering and civic landscape has been a profound privilege."
The ceremony was held at the City Chambers on June 5 with civic leaders, academic colleagues, community representatives, and his family.
The Lord Provost said: "Sir Jim is a true son of Glasgow whose leadership, innovation, and dedication have left an indelible mark on our city.
"His commitment to education, engineering excellence, and civic engagement makes him a most deserving recipient of the Loving Cup.
'His legacy, following his imminent retirement in August, is to leave the University of Strathclyde in a stellar position both here and abroad, with an excellent reputation for technology and innovation.'
A proud Glaswegian and three-time graduate of Strathclyde, Sir Jim began his career in the UK electricity supply industry before returning to the university in 1984.
Under his leadership from 2009, Strathclyde grew into a global leader in technological education and innovation.
He was knighted in 2012 for services to education, engineering, and the economy, and was appointed Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the British Empire in 2024.
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