Students’ work to transform the lives of those living near De Montfort University Leicester’s campus was singled out for praise by the Bishop of Woolwich as he collected an honorary degree from DMU.
The Right Rev Dr Michael Ipgrave OBE offered his “warmest congratulations” to graduands from the Faculty of Art, Design and Humanities who received their degrees this morning at Curve theatre.
He said that DMU’s Square Mile project – which works to share the skills of students and staff to benefit the community – was making a huge difference to the lives of residents.
Bishop Michael, who owns a house on Tudor Road, in the heart of the Square Mile area, said he had seen first-hand the schemes run to improve health outcomes, promote community spirit and raise educational aspirations.
He also praised #DMUglobal, the university’s international experience programme which offers students the chance to experience different cultures as part of their studies.
He told the audience: “Horizons are broadened, lives enriched. The local and the global. Wherever life takes you, I hope that you will be shaped by the education you have received here. You will know you are a citizen of the world, and I hope you find a square mile in which you can flourish with your neighbours.”
Bishop Michael was made an Honorary Doctor of Letters in recognition for his work to promote inter-faith work and his past ministry in Leicester – he a former team vicar of St Andrew's Church in Jarrom Street, next to the DMU campus.
He is interfaith relations advisor to the Archbishops’ Council of the Church of England.
He said: “I’m very honoured to be given this award by De Montfort University which I think is a wonderful institution in Leicester, a wonderful city.
I’m particularly glad to be with so many graduates of so many backgrounds, faiths and cultures which represent the diversity of Leicester, and of DMU.”
Afterwards, the precinct outside Curve was thronged with happy graduates, their families and friends who were celebrating the end of years of hard work.
Dance student Francesca Nixon (pictured above, fifth from left) is one of DMU's Square Mile volunteers, and gives her time to run a dance club for pupils at New College in Leicester. She said: "I started it this year for year seven and eight, so I'm hoping to expand that in September. It's been very popular."
Friend Luke Evans is waiting to hear if he has a place to do a Master's in drama therapy. He said: "DMU has been brilliant."
Posted on Thursday 16 July 2015