Boston College celebrated its Higher Education Graduates at a ceremony held at the historic St Botolph’s Church in Boston on Thursday 22nd October.
The occasion brought together graduates, their families and friends, College staff and special guests to recognise the hard work and dedication behind their achievements. Guests included Annabell Ward, Deputy Lord-Lieutenant of Lincolnshire; Ingrid Sheard, Deputy Mayor of Greater Lincolnshire; and Councillor Jonathan Noble, Worshipful Mayor of Greater Lincolnshire.
For many, graduation marked the end of years of study alongside work and other commitments, and the start of an exciting new chapter. It was an opportunity to celebrate their success with the people who had supported them along the way.
The ceremony began with an introduction from Dr Cary Edwards, Head of HE Quality at Boston College, followed by a welcome from Fr David Stephenson to St Botolph’s Church. Lynette Leith OBE, Principal and CEO of Boston College, then officially opened the ceremony, recognising the determination behind the graduates’ achievements.
In her opening address Lynette said: “Every graduate here has their own story, and behind each qualification are the decisions you have made to keep going, even when things have been difficult. You should be incredibly proud of what you have achieved. You may never quite know how much your achievement means to somebody else, but today you become role models, showing others what is possible when you give your talents the chance to grow. Our communities deserve opportunities that match their talent, and you have shown what can happen when you take those opportunities.”
Boston College alumna Katrina Pierce, Regional Business and Stakeholder Manager at the Federation of Small Businesses, delivered the keynote speech. She reflected on the value of education, developing new skills and making the most of local opportunities when taking the next step in life and work.
The graduates also had the opportunity to hear from one of their own, as Business degree graduate Bradley Atkins took to the stage to share his experience as a student and celebrate the achievements of his fellow graduates. Performing Arts student Sarinya May then performed Miley Cyrus’ ‘The Climb’, a fitting addition to a day celebrating the hard work, determination and perseverance that had brought graduates to this point.
Graduation certificates were presented by Lynette Leith OBE and Dr Sarah Charles, Director of the Institute of Education and Skills at the University of Derby. Each presentation marked an important milestone for the graduates, recognising the commitment it had taken to achieve their qualifications.
Following the ceremony, graduates, families and friends gathered in the grounds of St Botolph’s to take photographs, catch up and celebrate together.
Boston College congratulates all its Higher Education graduates of 2026 and wishes them every success for the future, whether they are moving into employment, continuing their studies or taking on a new challenge.
As an academic partner of the University of Derby, Boston College offers a range of University Level courses, from Higher National Diplomas to PGCE qualifications, across subjects including Education, Business, Creative Arts, Sport, Fitness and Wellbeing, Children and Young People, and Engineering. Explore Boston College’s University Level courses and discover where your next step could take you.
