A big ‘thank you’ to our colleagues who supported graduation
17 Aug 2022
As we hosted our first in-person summer graduation ceremonies for three years, our colleagues worked tirelessly to make it an occasion to remember
Graduation is always a special time on campus, but this year felt particularly significant as in-person summer ceremonies returned. The traditional fortnight was a packed schedule as our Class of 2022 graduated, and five extra ceremonies took place on Saturday, 16 July for graduates from the Classes of 2020 and 2021 who could not attend our catch-up ceremonies in March and April.
Whether showing guests to their seats or taking part in processions, to those working behind the scenes such as grounds staff or AV technicians, it’s a huge team effort with one goal: to deliver a truly memorable experience.
From Monday, 11 July to Friday, 22 July, we hosted over 20,000 guests, with our Hospitality team serving up:
- 18,000 glasses of Prosecco
- 12,000 chocolate lollipops
- 10,000 ice-creams
- 3,000 glasses of Pimm’s
- 900 litres of water
Air cooling units were deployed to keep everyone cool as the temperatures soared.
Alison Shedlock, Head of Campus Services and Assistant Director of Estates and Facilities, said: “I’d like to thank all colleagues who worked so hard to make our first in-person summer graduation since 2019 so successful. It was challenging given the extreme heat during the second week – something we’re not used to facing in Manchester! But everyone was determined to give our graduates some great memories.”
Steve Jordan, Deputy Director of Estates, added: “Our teams have done an amazing job in some of the most challenging weather conditions we’ve ever faced. The campus looked immaculate and full of colour for this special celebration in our University’s calendar. A huge thanks to everyone involved.”
Pictured: HospitalityonCampus General Manager Jonathan Minshull in the graduation tent.