Class of 2019
24 July 2019
The School of Geography and Planning celebrated Graduation in style on Tuesday 16 July 2019.
The formal Graduation ceremony, honouring undergraduate, postgraduate and PhD students, took place at Cardiff’s St David’s Hall, and was preceded by a mid-afternoon reception in the sun on the front lawn of the University’s imposing Main Building.
The Reception was an opportunity for graduates to celebrate with friends, family and loved ones, and for the School’s academic and professional services staff to congratulate them and toast their success.
This year, 35 undergraduate students achieved a First Class Honours Degree, while 33 students received distinctions in their postgraduate taught programmes.
During the reception, Head of School, Professor Paul Milbourne, spoke about the hard work, dedication and commitment shown by each and every student throughout their studies. He spoke about how they had challenged their thinking, developed their critical skills and embraced reasoned and spirited debate.
Professor Milbourne also took a moment to recognise the support, encouragement and mentorship provided by the staff. Following his speech, he presented several prizes for best academic performance across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.
The School was pleased to recognise:
- Astrid Guthier - top performing student on the three-year BSc City and Regional Planning programme.
- Matthew Ellis - top performing student on the BSc Geography (Human) programme.
- Ellena Hodges - top performing student on the four-year BSc City and Regional Planning programme.
- Sophie Jones - top performing student on the BSc Geography (Human) and Planning programme.
- Laurie Appleyard - top performing student on the MSc International Planning & Development programme.
- Rand Irons - top performing student on the MSc Urban and Regional Development programme.
- Mali Evans - top performing student on the MSc Food, Space and Society programme.
- Caitlin Ballard - top performing student on the MSc Sustainability, Planning and Environmental Policy programme.
Professor Milbourne said: “Graduation really is a highlight of the year. It is an opportunity to acknowledge the hard work of students and congratulate them on achieving their degrees. Our aim as a School is to produce forward-thinking, creative and curious graduates who will go out into the world and use their knowledge and skills to improve society and places for future generations. I have no doubt that the Class of 2019 will do that, and much more. I wish them every success.”
During their time at the School, each student has played a role in enriching and enhancing the School community and culture. As Graduation ends for another year, the School is keen to remind all graduates that they will always be a part of that community as valued and respected alumni. Congratulations to the Class of 2019!
