Perth Concert Hall recently played host to an inspiring occasion as hundreds of University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) Perth students gathered to commemorate their significant academic milestones. The atmosphere was charged with excitement and pride on Thursday, October 2, 2025, as graduates crossed the stage to formally receive their hard-earned degrees, diplomas, certificates, and awards.
The annual graduation ceremony is a highlight of the academic calendar, marking the culmination of years of diligent study, personal growth, and dedication for countless individuals from across Perth and Kinross and beyond. This year, the grandeur of Perth Concert Hall provided a fitting backdrop for the formal proceedings, reflecting the significance of each student’s achievement.
Despite the autumn weather taking a turn with rain before the ceremony commenced, spirits remained high. Graduates, adorned in their academic regalia, along with their beaming families and friends, sought shelter before the event, adding a shared experience of anticipation to the day. The slight dampness did little to dim the joyous smiles and celebratory mood that permeated the venue.
Following the solemn yet uplifting formal segment of the day, the celebrations continued as graduates and their guests were invited to partake in a convivial atmosphere. This provided an invaluable opportunity for reflection on the challenging but rewarding academic journeys undertaken and to look forward with optimism to the professional and personal futures that lie ahead. Proud conversations filled the air as families shared stories of perseverance and triumph, acknowledging the collective effort that often underpins individual success. Diverse Talents for Perth’s Future
The graduating cohort represented a rich tapestry of disciplines, underscoring the broad academic offerings at UHI Perth and its commitment to fostering a diverse range of skills vital for the local economy and wider community. Among the many celebrating were students from vital fields such as HNC Childhood Practice, with Naomi Thompson, Lauren Winton, Shannon Stewart, and Lara Small representing this crucial area of early years development. Their contribution will be invaluable to families and educational settings across Perth and Kinross.
The creative industries also saw a vibrant group of graduates. Morven Cooney, Kennedy Bowes, and Curtis Hirst emerged from Theatre Industry Practice, ready to enrich the region’s cultural landscape. Similarly, Audio Engineering graduates Euan Matheson, Andrew Young, and Luc Melrose are poised to make their mark, bringing technical expertise to sound production and music. Carl McGregor, Aaron Watt, and William Crone also marked their completion of Audio Engineering, demonstrating the college’s strength in this growing field. Meanwhile, Ben McColl and Keir Jeffrey celebrated their achievements in Popular Music, promising new sounds and artistic flair to local venues and beyond. Scott Brice and Scott Feenie also completed their Popular Music Studies, adding to the talent pool. Celebrating Dedication and Innovation
The ceremony also celebrated those pursuing careers that touch the heart of everyday life. Rebecca Moran, a graduate in Food Textiles Education, shared her special day with her children, Erin (aged 5) and Oliver (aged 7), a poignant reminder of the dedication many adult learners bring to their studies while balancing family life. Her achievement reflects the blend of practical skills and academic rigor that UHI Perth instills.
In the realm of biological sciences, Ella Lawrie and Chandra Hepburn received their HNC Bio Science qualifications, ready to contribute to scientific advancements and research. The world of Music Business welcomed Jennifer McAnally and Kirsty Fulton, equipped to navigate the commercial side of the music industry. Zima Keogh, a Sound Production graduate, celebrated not only her accomplishment but also the unwavering support of her parents, Janey and Gareth Keogh, highlighting the crucial role families play.
Further showcasing the diverse pathways offered, Morgan Smith and Martina Strzelewicz graduated in Visual Communication and Design, bringing their creative vision to the forefront. Lilla Csuka and Nora Pinel achieved HND Administration and IT, possessing the essential organisational and technological skills demanded by modern workplaces. The collective achievements of these graduates represent a significant infusion of talent into the professional spheres of Perth and Kinross, promising innovation and skilled labour for the future.
The events at Perth Concert Hall underscored the profound impact of UHI Perth on its students and the broader community, providing not just qualifications but also the skills, confidence, and connections needed to thrive. As these new graduates embark on their next chapters, they carry with them the pride of their accomplishments and the potential to shape the future of their local area and beyond.
The annual graduation ceremony is a highlight of the academic calendar, marking the culmination of years of diligent study, personal growth, and dedication for countless individuals from across Perth and Kinross and beyond. This year, the grandeur of Perth Concert Hall provided a fitting backdrop for the formal proceedings, reflecting the significance of each student’s achievement.
Despite the autumn weather taking a turn with rain before the ceremony commenced, spirits remained high. Graduates, adorned in their academic regalia, along with their beaming families and friends, sought shelter before the event, adding a shared experience of anticipation to the day. The slight dampness did little to dim the joyous smiles and celebratory mood that permeated the venue.
Following the solemn yet uplifting formal segment of the day, the celebrations continued as graduates and their guests were invited to partake in a convivial atmosphere. This provided an invaluable opportunity for reflection on the challenging but rewarding academic journeys undertaken and to look forward with optimism to the professional and personal futures that lie ahead. Proud conversations filled the air as families shared stories of perseverance and triumph, acknowledging the collective effort that often underpins individual success. Diverse Talents for Perth’s Future
The graduating cohort represented a rich tapestry of disciplines, underscoring the broad academic offerings at UHI Perth and its commitment to fostering a diverse range of skills vital for the local economy and wider community. Among the many celebrating were students from vital fields such as HNC Childhood Practice, with Naomi Thompson, Lauren Winton, Shannon Stewart, and Lara Small representing this crucial area of early years development. Their contribution will be invaluable to families and educational settings across Perth and Kinross.
The creative industries also saw a vibrant group of graduates. Morven Cooney, Kennedy Bowes, and Curtis Hirst emerged from Theatre Industry Practice, ready to enrich the region’s cultural landscape. Similarly, Audio Engineering graduates Euan Matheson, Andrew Young, and Luc Melrose are poised to make their mark, bringing technical expertise to sound production and music. Carl McGregor, Aaron Watt, and William Crone also marked their completion of Audio Engineering, demonstrating the college’s strength in this growing field. Meanwhile, Ben McColl and Keir Jeffrey celebrated their achievements in Popular Music, promising new sounds and artistic flair to local venues and beyond. Scott Brice and Scott Feenie also completed their Popular Music Studies, adding to the talent pool. Celebrating Dedication and Innovation
The ceremony also celebrated those pursuing careers that touch the heart of everyday life. Rebecca Moran, a graduate in Food Textiles Education, shared her special day with her children, Erin (aged 5) and Oliver (aged 7), a poignant reminder of the dedication many adult learners bring to their studies while balancing family life. Her achievement reflects the blend of practical skills and academic rigor that UHI Perth instills.
In the realm of biological sciences, Ella Lawrie and Chandra Hepburn received their HNC Bio Science qualifications, ready to contribute to scientific advancements and research. The world of Music Business welcomed Jennifer McAnally and Kirsty Fulton, equipped to navigate the commercial side of the music industry. Zima Keogh, a Sound Production graduate, celebrated not only her accomplishment but also the unwavering support of her parents, Janey and Gareth Keogh, highlighting the crucial role families play.
Further showcasing the diverse pathways offered, Morgan Smith and Martina Strzelewicz graduated in Visual Communication and Design, bringing their creative vision to the forefront. Lilla Csuka and Nora Pinel achieved HND Administration and IT, possessing the essential organisational and technological skills demanded by modern workplaces. The collective achievements of these graduates represent a significant infusion of talent into the professional spheres of Perth and Kinross, promising innovation and skilled labour for the future.
The events at Perth Concert Hall underscored the profound impact of UHI Perth on its students and the broader community, providing not just qualifications but also the skills, confidence, and connections needed to thrive. As these new graduates embark on their next chapters, they carry with them the pride of their accomplishments and the potential to shape the future of their local area and beyond.