Latest news with #DoctoroftheUniversity
Scotsman
11-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Scotsman
Honorary degrees for actress, food entrepreneur and cultural leader at QMU graduation
On the 8th July, Queen Margaret University (QMU), Edinburgh awarded honorary degrees to an acclaimed Scottish actress, a food innovator and an Edinburgh Fringe leader at its 2025 graduation ceremonies. Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... The Scottish actress and narrator, Ashley Jensen; entrepreneur and Director of Genius Foods, Lucinda Bruce-Gardyne; and the former Chief Executive of the Edinburgh Fringe Society, Shona McCarthy; were honoured at a ceremony in Edinburgh's Usher Hall. The three inspirational women joined the newly installed Chancellor of QMU, Patrick Grant – designer, entrepreneur and judge on BBC's 'The Great British Sewing Bee' – to celebrate the achievements of hundreds of new QMU graduates. Ashley Jensen, most recently known for her leading detective role in BBC's much loved crime drama 'Shetland' was awarded Doctor of the University for her contributions to the arts. Lucinda Bruce-Gardyne, the visionary founder of Genius Foods, a UK-based company specialising in gluten-free bakery, received a Doctor of Business Administration for her contribution to food development and innovation. Shona McCarthy, former Chief Executive of the Edinburgh Fringe Society, was honoured with a Doctor of the University for her visionary leadership in the arts and her profound impact on Scotland's cultural landscape. Ashley Jensen Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Ashley Jensen, Shona McCarthy, Patrick Grant, Lucinda Bruce Gardyne and Principal of QMU, Sir Paul Grice Ashley, best known for her leading role as DI Ruth Calder in the hit TV drama, 'Shetland' and her time playing Maggie Jacobs alongside Ricky Gervais in the comedy series 'Extras' was brought up in Annan, Dumfriesshire. Her time studying drama at what was then Queen Margaret College (now Queen Margaret University) laid the foundation for a career marked by versatility, emotional depth, and authenticity. Her success in TV's Extras, for which she earned two British Comedy Awards and a BAFTA nomination, introduced her to a global audience. She went on to star in the American hit TV show 'Ugly Betty', where producers embraced her Scottish identity, rewriting her character to match her accent. Her work spans stage and screen, from early theatre roles with Glasgow's Citizens Theatre and Edinburgh's Traverse Theatre, to leading roles in Sky One's 'Agatha Raisin' and Shetland. In her recent starring role in Shetland, she brought a fresh perspective and emotional nuance to a beloved series, reaffirming her ability to lead and evolve. Ashley's voice has also become a familiar presence in animated films like 'How to Train Your Dragon', as well as in documentaries such as Channel 4's 'Embarrassing Bodies' BBC 2's 'Designing the Hebrides', and national campaigns. Lucinda Bruce Gardyne, Ashley Jensen, Patrick Grant and Shona McCarthy Lucinda Bruce-Gardyne Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Lucinda, the visionary founder of Genius Foods, trained as a chef at the Leith School of Food and Wine, a prestigious cook school founded by QMU's former Chancellor, Dame Prue Leith. But when her son was diagnosed with multiple food allergies and a severe intolerance to gluten, Lucinda embarked on a challenge to create gluten-free bread that would not only meet the dietary needs of her family, but also satisfy the taste buds of consumers everywhere. In 2009, she founded Genius Foods, which quickly became a global leader in gluten-free products. Her relentless innovation and commitment to quality have improved the lives of millions living with coeliac disease and other dietary restrictions. Lucinda's influence extends beyond product development. She is a published author, educator, and advocate for food allergy awareness. Her books, including 'How to Cook for Food Allergies', have empowered home cooks and professionals alike. Lucinda's recent appointment as Executive Chair of the New Town Cookery School in Edinburgh, will see her help shape the future of culinary education. A Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh and founding member of the Gluten Free Industry Association, Lucinda is also an Innovate UK ambassador. Her leadership has driven progress in food science and industry standards. Shona McCarthy Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The University also recognised the exceptional leadership and transformative impact that Shona McCarthy has had on the arts. For nine years, Shona led the world's largest arts festival with vision, resilience, and a deep commitment to inclusivity. Under her leadership, the Fringe thrived through economic shifts and the pandemic, whilst becoming more accessible and representative. She championed emerging artists, expanded international collaborations, and introduced initiatives such as performer bursaries and relaxed performances, ensuring the Fringe remained a vibrant, welcoming space for all. Shona's influence extends far beyond Edinburgh. As Chief Executive of the Culture Company, she led Derry-Londonderry's landmark year as the first UK City of Culture in 2013. She has also held senior roles with the British Council Northern Ireland, Imagine Belfast, and the Northern Ireland Film Council, and led youth-focused film festivals including Cinemagic and the Foyle Film Festival. Her contributions to the arts have been recognised with a NESTA Cultural Leadership Award and an Eisenhower Fellowship, connecting her to a global network of changemakers. She has also served as Chair of 'Walk the Plank' and Belfast's 'Oh Yeah Music Centre'. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Sir Paul Grice, Principal of Queen Margaret University, said: 'In the year that Queen Margaret University celebrates its 150th anniversary, we are delighted to recognise the contribution of these three inspirational women. From the arts to food innovation, we are proud to honour the mark they each have made on the world and their work striving to be a force for good.' Discussing Ashley Jensen, Sir Paul explained: 'Aside from Ashley's impressive artistic achievements, she has remained a passionate advocate for the arts in Scotland. She has used her platform to support emerging talent, promote diversity in casting, and champion mental health awareness within the creative industries. Her commitment to these causes reflects values we cherish at Queen Margaret University - compassion, courage, and community - and she is a shining example of what our graduates can achieve when they combine talent with tenacity, and creativity with integrity.' Sir Paul continued: 'Lucinda Bruce-Gardyne's dedication to quality and innovation has set a new standard in the gluten-free market, making Genius Foods a household name and a trusted choice for consumers around the world. Her work has brought joy and dignity to those with special dietary needs and inspired a new generation of food entrepreneurs. We recognise the significant contribution that she has made to innovation in the food industry and the entrepreneurial landscape in Scotland.' Discussing Shona McCarthy's exceptional contribution to the arts, Sir Paul concluded: 'Shona embodies QMU's values of creativity, social responsibility, and community impact. Her career is testament to the power of the arts to inspire, connect, and transform lives. As our graduates begin their own journeys, Shona stands as a powerful example of what can be achieved through passion, purpose, and fearless leadership.'
STV News
08-07-2025
- Entertainment
- STV News
Ashley Jensen receives honorary doctorate 35 years after leaving QMU
Actress Ashley Jensen has received an honorary doctorate from Queen Margaret University in Edinburgh – 35 years after leaving the institution to pursue her career in acting. The 55-year-old studied drama at the higher education institution, then known as Queen Margaret College, before going on to begin her acting career. Jensen has starred alongside Ricky Gervais on comedy series Extras, hit American TV show Ugly Betty and most recently DI Ruth Calder in crime drama Shetland. On Tuesday, she was awarded Doctor of the University for her contributions to the arts at Edinburgh's Usher Hall. QMU She told STV News: 'I still feel as if I am the age of every graduate here in my head, although my body, my face might say otherwise. But I still feel that. And I think you don't ever lose that. 'I think it's important to not lose sight of who you were and how far sometimes you become and actually go, 'Yeah, I've done all right'. 'Sometimes my journey's not been what I expected it to be, but I quite like the way it's turned out.' QMU Sir Paul Grice, principal of QMU, said: 'Aside from Ashley's impressive artistic achievements, she has remained a passionate advocate for the arts in Scotland. 'She has used her platform to support emerging talent, promote diversity in casting, and champion mental health awareness within the creative industries. 'Her commitment to these causes reflects values we cherish at Queen Margaret University – compassion, courage, and community – and she is a shining example of what our graduates can achieve when they combine talent with tenacity, and creativity with integrity.' Get all the latest news from around the country Follow STV News Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country
Glasgow Times
03-07-2025
- Business
- Glasgow Times
Rachel Corsie honoured by Glasgow Caledonian University
Glasgow Caledonian University acknowledged two individuals on the second day of their summer graduation ceremonies at the Royal Concert Hall for their contributions to society. Rachel Corsie, former Scotland national women's football team captain and advocate for inclusion in sport, was awarded a Doctor of the University for her contributions to football and efforts in promoting gender equity and accessibility in sports. Read more: Scaffolding collapses into building shattering residents window Reflecting on her career, the Accounting and Finance graduate, who represented her country 155 times over an 18-year career, said: "Sharing this moment with you brings back very happy memories for me. "I first stood in a hall like this in 2011, when I graduated with an Accounting and Finance degree. "The 15 years since have brought experiences that were unthinkable back then." She also praised Glasgow, her second home, for its spirit and people, saying: "For those of you from here, you'll understand the inherent values of a city that abundantly knows the importance of people and strong relationships." The former footballer ended her speech by encouraging graduates to give their all and to let their Scottish roots guide them. Also honoured was Mike Hammond, a stalwart of the global insurance industry, who was awarded a Doctor of Business Administration for his transformative impact over a five-decade career. He is currently a non-executive director at Willis Towers Watson, a global leader in risk management, actuarial, and insurance services. Mr Hammond told graduates: "I was the first in my family to stay on at school after 16. "The confidence I gained from university gave me the courage to travel the road less travelled. 'Making a difference and providing opportunities for others to make a difference is very important to me. 'I've learned not to take education for granted. Opportunity through education is the greatest gift you can give someone. It was the most important gift given to me.'
The Herald Scotland
18-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Herald Scotland
Sharleen Spiteri speaks of delight after receiving honorary degree
On Wednesday, the University of Glasgow (UoG) recognised a number of individuals for services to their respective fields and industries, including: Spiteri; broadcaster Kirsty Young; political scientist Professor Sir John Curtice; and the author and journalist, Sally Magnusson. Following the special commemoration day ceremony, which marked the foundation of the university, Spiteri, originally from Bellshill, North Lanarkshire, said it was 'emotional' to have received such recognition for her career in music, and said she and her sister wished their mother could have been there to witness the occasion. She told the PA News Agency: 'When I got the call, the first thing I did was phone my sister, Corrine, up and said, 'you will never believe this' and both us us were wishing my mum could have been here to see it, which makes it really special. READ MORE: Revisiting Texas's classic 1997 album, White On Blonde 'In the moment, you're sitting in there and you're surrounded by the other honoraries and you listen to their stories. 'You're listening to what they've done and it gets really emotional because you're thinking about all the people that got you here. She added: 'It takes a lot of people to allow you to support you and to be successful. You don't start successful, nobody does.' The band's current line-up, consists of Spiteri, Johnny McElhone (bass, guitar, keyboards); Ally McErlaine (guitar); Eddie Campbell (keyboards); Tony McGovern (guitar, backing vocals); and Cat Myers (drums). Next year, the band marks 40 years together, and Spiteri said she had no idea the group would have ever become as famous as they are now. Sharleen Spiteri (Image: Sharleen Spiteri) She said: 'Honest to god, I thought if I could just write one hit record, I'd be happy. 'Johnny McElhone and I thought that as the two of us sat there in a spare room, literally recording on a four-track, writing I Don't Want A Lover and we thought, 'we can write one song'. 'He had already been in successful bands before, he'd already written a few hit records, so I feel that I probably had a better chance than a lot of people.' Asked if the band has any plans to mark the 40th anniversary, Spiteri said: 'Well, if I tell you, then you know about it, don't you? It's what you don't know about you'll have to wait and see. 'We've got a big summer this year, we've got 30 festivals around the world. So we're doing that and I'm actually heading off now to literally get back on the tour bus.' (left to right) Broadcaster Kirsty Young receives a Doctor of the University (DUniv), musician Sharleen Spiteri receives a Doctor of Music (DMus) and author and journalist Sally Magnusson receives a Doctor of the University (DUniv) from the University of Glasgow (Image: Jane Barlow/PA Wire) Asked what advice she would offer any young, aspiring musicians hoping to get into the industry, she joked: 'Don't listen to people like me.' Also honoured, Kirsty Young spent 35 years working as a broadcaster across a number of TV and radio outlets, including the BBC, STV, Channel 5 and ITV. She was made an Honorary Doctor for her services to her industry, and said it means a 'huge amount' to her. She told the PA News Agency: 'The thing about this honorary degree is it genuinely, deeply feels like an honour.' She added: 'My mother is a Glaswegian, my grandparents and great grandparents were Glaswegian, so to be in this great city and receive this award means a huge amount.' Asked what advice she would offer those who want to work in broadcasting, she said: 'I think the best thing you can do if you're interested in breaking into broadcasting is become a kind of citizen journalist. 'You've got it all in your hands – when I started I was packing camera cases for camera men, there were no camera women in those days or female sound recorders. 'I was labelling tapes, it was a very big, cumbersome operation, but anybody who is at university now will know that it can just be them and their phone or a little camera and they can make news and they can upload it to YouTube and do their own thing. 'So, I would say, get experience by getting the on-air miles under your belt by doing that, and badger organisations that you want to work for. It's a really hard game and it's harder than ever now because people aren't used to paying for content. 'Stick at it, it's a hard game, but it will give you a fantastically interesting life, and you will have access to people and places that most people never get to see or speak to so it's really worth it.' Professor Sir John Curtice, who was awarded an honorary doctorate of letters, said: 'It's a great delight to receive an honorary degree from the university. It is a rare accolade, and I appreciate the university for having awarded it to me. 'In a sense, it's a recognition or a celebration of the fact that I have been able to work with Glasgow University over a number of years. And the fact that, although I'm a member of a different, somewhat rival institution on the other side of the city, it's been perfectly willing to allow me to work, or to be involved in some of the work of this institution as well.' Sally Magnusson, who was awarded a doctor of the university degree, added: 'I'm absolutely thrilled to have got this wonderful doctorate, from the University of Glasgow. 'It has been a real thrill for me to discover what the inside of this lovely university is like, and to be part of its history is tremendous. Centuries and centuries of history and beauty and learning – it's fantastic.'
