Global gathering for Imperial College London’s Postgraduate Graduation

Postgraduate students and guests from over 65 countries will be taking part in Imperial College London’s 2012 Postgraduate Graduation Ceremonies at the Royal Albert Hall today

Today’s ceremonies for postgraduate students will see more than 2,500 science, engineering, medicine and business graduands awarded their postgraduate degrees, watched by family and friends.

The event will be hosted by Imperial’s President & Rector Sir Keith O’Nions. Addressing the audience of graduands and their guests, Sir Keith said:

"During this Olympic year, in which the world will be coming to London, it is fitting to reflect on the strengths the international mix within our own community brings to life at Imperial. As many of our postgraduates move now to work in more global contexts and engage in business, economic issues or the challenges of climate change, environment or health, the cultures and perspectives they shared and exchanged here at Imperial will be an invaluable foundation. To think what they will achieve after they cross the stage today is incredibly exciting."

Graduates leaving the stage of the Royal Albert Hall join a community of over 160,000 Imperial alumni across the world, supported by more than 50 international alumni associations.

During today’s ceremonies an honorary degree will be awarded to Ray O’Rourke, Chairman & Chief Executive of Laing O’Rourke in recognition of his outstanding contribution to engineering and to the UK construction industry. Admitted to the Fellowship of Imperial College London are former Chief Operating Officer of the College, Martin Knight, and Professor David Lloyd Smith, former Dean of Students and member of the Department of Civil Engineering. Fellowships are awarded to figures judged to have made significant contributions to the life of the College.

Professors Anthony Bull and Andrew Bush both also receive awards in recognition of their outstanding research supervision of postgraduate students.

Graduates and their families will be able to continue their celebrations at the Imperial Festival, the College’s first public festival, on the 11 and 12 May. The Festival, which features hands on science demonstrations, music and comedy, will include special events for alumni as well as being open to the public.