The Princess Royal joins University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) in celebrating nursing and optometry graduates at special ceremony in Inverness
More than 130 nursing and optometry students have celebrated their graduation at Eden Court.
Students from the Inverness and Stornoway campuses of the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) were at the event presided over by UHI’s chancellor, Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal.
Some 600 guests were at the ceremony, where UHI principal and vice-chancellor Vicki Nairn expressed pride in the graduates’ accomplishments.
“Their achievements are a testament not only to their hard work and commitment but also to the unwavering support they have received throughout their journey,” she said.
Several special awards were presented during the ceremony to recognise the exceptional contributions and achievements of students and staff.
The UHI Centre for Rural Health Sciences Student of the Year, as well as the UHI Overall Student of the Year, was awarded to Lou Hyett-Collins from Fochabers. Lou, who completed a BSc in adult nursing, was selected for her exceptional dedication to nursing, high academic performance, and advocacy work on issues such as student finance, workforce conditions, and nursing education funding.
“I’m excited and proud,” she said. “I absolutely loved the course. I thoroughly enjoyed the academic challenge, as well as the opportunities and rewards the course has provided. It’s been challenging at times, but the support from all the lecturers has been fantastic. Being a smaller university allows for a personal touch and the chance to really get to know fellow students and lecturers - I’ve made friends for life."
The Princess Royal presented the prestigious Chancellor’s Medal to Emeritus Professor Neil Simco. Professor Simco, who retired in 2024 as UHI’s deputy principal academic and research, received the award in recognition of contributions to UHI’s research, tertiary education strategies, and Gaelic language initiatives.
Additional honours included the Chancellor’s Nursing Award, presented to Gemma Mackay from Golspie, who completed a BSc in adult nursing. Gemma was recognised for her resilience, commitment, and outstanding performance as a nursing student, despite facing significant personal challenges.
“The course was challenging for me at times,” she said. “I’ve had a lot going on in my personal life over the last few years, but I got there. I wouldn't be here today without the reassurance and support of Danni, my personal academic tutor. I am honoured to have been nominated for the Chancellor’s Nursing Award and overwhelmed that I won!”
Following the ceremony, graduates joined in a traditional procession around Inverness Cathedral, led by piper and UHI Gaelic officer DJ MacIntyre before returning to Eden Court for a celebratory reception.
