Royal congratulations for the Class of 2020
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The University of Liverpool’s Class of 2020 received a special message from His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales today as part of online celebrations to mark graduation.
The Prince, who is Joint Patron of the University’s Institute of Irish Studies, joined students, University staff, alumni and some famous faces in a film to honour the incredible achievements of this year’s graduates.
Speaking to the Class of 2020 he said: “I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to each and every one of you on the completion of your degree.
“At any time, graduation is a major milestone and can only be achieved with hard work, dedication and talent. In the extraordinary difficult times through which we have been living, you have had to contend with challenges no previous generation has had to face. You will all have been affected personally to one degree or another, but you have all succeeded, despite the difficulties.”
The film, which students were encouraged to watch together with their friends and families, also included well wishes from Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson, Everton captain Séamus Coleman, broadcaster and former student Jon Snow and University of Liverpool Chancellor and author Colm Tóibín.
University of Liverpool Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dame Janet Beer said: “The Class of 2020 is graduating at a truly unprecedented moment in history as the world tries to come to terms with the pandemic.
“This troubling time has been tough for everyone, but many of the personal stories from our students have been a shining light over recent months. From students in medicine and other healthcare disciplines directly supporting the NHS response, to volunteers helping those most in need in their communities, and individuals using their creativity and skill in new ways, their stories have inspired us all.
“I hope the celebration today gave the Class of 2020 a chance to reflect on the memories they’ve made during their time with us; the friendships, passions and a love of the city of Liverpool.”
This year’s graduates will be invited back to the University of Liverpool during summer 2021 for a more traditional graduation celebration at the Liverpool Philharmonic Hall.