On Friday (12th October), University College Isle of Man (UCM) hosted its annual Graduates’ Ceremony at the Villa Marina, celebrating the achievements of its graduating students.
The event, a highlight of UCM’s academic calendar, was officially opened by Paul Craine MLC, who welcomed graduates, families, staff and invited guests to the evening’s celebrations.
This year, the prestigious Liam Arrowsmith Higher Education Student of the Year Award, was presented to Matthew Brand, who also attained his BA (Hons) Highways Engineering, Network Planning and Asset Management through UCM’s Professional Development Degree framework.
The Research Award, supported by Utmost International, was presented to BA(Hons) Business Management student Eden McCubbin for excellence in research undertaken as part of their higher education studies. The award recognises exceptional academic inquiry and the highest standards of research achievement.
The ceremony also celebrated the contribution of distinguished individuals to education, industry and the wider community through the awarding of an Honorary Fellowship. UCM was delighted to confer the honour on Chris Kissack, recognising his significant achievements as well as ongoing contributions to UCM.
The 2026 Graduates’ Ceremony recognised the achievements of 135 students who successfully completed their qualifications, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter in their lives.