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The 72nd Graduation Ceremonies of Rose Bruford College took place at the Parish Church of Holy Trinity, Lamorbey on Thursday 12th September. The four ceremonies celebrated the accomplishments of more than 200 students who had won the right to graduate after completing courses in subjects such as American Theatre Arts, Costume Production, Creative Lighting Control and Acting. It was a proud moment to watch students on stage in their ceremonial caps and gowns in front of their family members and distinguished guests.
The Ceremony was opened by the Chair of Governors, Ms. Jennifer Sims and presided over by College Principal and CEO Professor Randall S Whittaker and President Professor Bernardine Evaristo.
The College awarded Honorary Fellowships to four notable guests on the day for their contribution to the arts.
- Professor Maria Delgado – academic, critic and curator whose work in the areas of Spanish-language theatres and film, memory and culture and production and performance practices have been published in eight languages.
- Cassandra Gracey – President of 4th Floor Creative @ Sony Music UK, a creative & strategic hub. Amplifying artists & brands stories to connect with global audiences.
- The Baroness O’Neill of Bexley OBE – Leader of Bexley London Borough Council since 2008, co-president of London Councils and Deputy Chair of the Local Government Association.
- Monisha Shah – Media professional with a specific interest in creative industries and higher education. She is a Trustee of the Donmar Warehouse and of the Art Fund and a serving member on the Board of Office for Students. She previously served as a Trustee of Tate, the National Gallery, the Foundling Museum and ArtUK
Principal Randall S Whittaker recognised the hard work and commitment of the students and shared his best wishes for their future careers.
Principal Whittaker said, “This is an exciting time for the College as we launch our new. strategic plan, demonstrating our commitment to supporting the future of global arts. This year’s graduation event is a living breathing example of our values as a college. To see our students graduate in an environment where every individual is encouraged to push the boundaries of their craft and explore new horizons fills me with pride.”
He conferred the Awards to the graduates before taking the opportunity to thankPresident Bernardine Evaristo for her dedication to the College as President over the last four years. The event was Bernardine Evaristo’s last formal duty as her term of office ends in October.
President Bernardine Evaristo, said, “I began my writing career when I was a student at Rose Bruford College. It has always held a special place in my heart because of the foundation it gave me as a creative person who was trained to make a difference in the world through the arts. It inspired my lifelong dedication to artistic creation, arts’ activism, commitment to community and inclusion. Our students become self-reliant, independent and fully rounded artists who remain rooted in their identities. I am proud to consider myself part of Rose Bruford College. Congratulations to all those graduating today. I wish you all my very best with your future careers.”
Haydn Jones, a graduating student in European Theatre Arts said, “My course has taught me many valuable skills which not only hone in on my theatrical experience but also allow me to understand what it means to work professionally in the industry in the UK and beyond. It was a wonderful day and exciting to celebrate this incredible achievement and journey with my fellow course mates and fantastic tutors.”
