Published: 31 July 2024
July saw the class of 2024 complete their university journey across three graduation ceremonies at the Barbican Centre in London. The new cohort of alumni were joined by friends, family and faculty alike to celebrate their achievements over their time at St George’s in a ceremony on Friday 19 July, as well as two more on Wednesday 24 July.
Eshan Sabesan and Erin McNamara, St George’s Students’ Union Presidents of Education and Welfare respectively, kicked off proceedings as they addressed their fellow students.
Opening the ceremonies, the pair said: “We're not just marking the end of an academic journey, but the beginning of a new chapter filled with endless possibilities and opportunities. The road to this moment hasn't always been easy. You've encountered challenges, pandemics, and moments of self-doubt. But through perseverance, determination, and support from our peers and mentors, we stand here today as graduates, ready to take on the world.
As we bid farewell to St George's, University of London, take a moment now to remember the time spent here. The people, the experiences, and the spirit that lead us all to being here today.
- Eshan Sabesan and Erin McNamara, St George's Students' Union Presidents of Education and Welfare -
Vice-Chancellor of St George’s, Professor Jenny Higham, also addressed attendees as part of the ceremonies. She said: “As St George’s graduates, I know you have the determination and dedication to achieve incredible things. And you will make a difference from the very start of your career.
“This is a particularly special occasion for today’s St George’s graduands, as you are the final graduating cohort before we merge with City, University of London to become City St George’s.
Graduation has always been a highlight of my time here – this is the moment where all of us at St George’s can celebrate your many achievements and share in the pride from your family and supporters. These are joyous occasions and there is no better feeling than being present in the hall to experience it first-hand.
- Professor Jenny Higham, Vice-Chancellor of St George's, University of London -
The ceremonies were closed with comments from St George’s Chair of Council Christine Swabey, who said: “You should be enormously proud of all you have accomplished and enjoy this moment.
“Wherever your path leads from this day, I have no doubt that the resilience and dedication which have brought you to this point will propel you towards success.”
Welcome to the St George’s alumni community
All graduates are enthusiastically encouraged to keep in touch with us as their alma mater, as well as to reap all the benefits which come with being part of the St George’s alumni community.
Congratulations to the Class of 2024!
Our Honorary degree recipients
Dr Gwen Adshead – Honorary Doctor of Science (Medicine) (DSc (Med))
Dr Gwen Adshead is an esteemed forensic psychotherapist, known predominantly for her outputs in the fields of personality disorder, ethics, and the law. One of her field’s most influential people of her generation, Dr Adshead has already been honoured with a Jochelson Visiting Professorship at Yale, the President’s Medal for her work in the ethics of mental health, and an Honorary Doctorate at St George’s in 2015.
Charlotte Beardmore CBE – Honorary Doctor of Science (DSc)
Charlotte Beardmore is the Executive Director of Professional Policy for the Society and College of Radiographers (SCoR). A seasoned diagnostic and therapeutic radiographer, she collaborates with government agencies, professional organisations and charities with a goal of developing and championing the radiographer workforce across the world.
Captain Harpreet Chandi MBE – Honorary Doctor of Science (DSc)
Captain Harpreet Chandi is a British Army Officer and Physiotherapist in the Royal Army Medical Corps. A St George’s alumna, Preet has a number of astonishing achievements to her name: the ninth woman in history to ski solo to the South Pole; the first woman of colour to complete a solo expedition in Antarctica; the holder of two Guiness World Records for the longest solo unsupported one-way ski expedition; and the fastest woman to ski to the South Pole, a record she broke by more than 36 hours.
Dr Tim Hardman – Honorary Fellowship of St George’s
Dr Tim Hardman is a highly distinguished scientist and entrepreneur in the field of drug development and clinical research. The Contract Research Organisation he founded in 1998, Niche Science & Technology Ltd., has been pivotal in the development of breakthrough therapies such as the first gene therapy, Strimvelis, and successful HIV antivirals.
Tracy Nicholls OBE FCPara – Honorary Doctor of Science (DSc)
Tracy Nicholls is the Chief Executive of the College of Paramedics. Under her leadership, the College successfully navigating the unprecedented challenges presented by the Covid-19 pandemic. Tracy has seen the College evolve and expand, with membership numbers now exceeding 21,000. Additionally, she has also overseen the introduction of mental health and wellbeing initiatives for all members.
Paul Sinha – Honorary Doctor of Science (DSc)
Paul Sinha is a St George’s alumnus whose various talents and achievements have made him a intelligent, charismatic and inspiring household name in the context of British entertainment and popular culture. As well as being spokesperson for the LGBT community and awareness for Parkinson’s disease, Paul still holds fundraisers to this day for the St George’s Annual Fund, which provides vital support to students who need it most.