Over a thousand people congregated at the Minster last week to celebrate the University’s 50th anniversary.
York residents, University alumni and current members of staff saw Chancellor Greg Dyke present honorary doctorates to five individuals who have made “outstanding contributions to York and Yorkshire in the last half-century,” at the place where the university was inaugurated in October 1963.
Robert Brech described his honorary degree as: “The icing on what was already a splendid cake.”
A first performance by the University of York Choir and Symphony Orchestra, specially composed by the Chamberlain of the York Minster Fund, Dr Richard Shephard, delighted a captivated audience on Tuesday evening.
Outgoing Vice-Chancellor Brian Cantor spoke afterwards, saying: “Since 1963, the University of York has inspired nearly 100,000 people to cross continents, and embrace almost every imaginable job and profession.
“We are proud to work with all our friends and partners in the city, to ensure its economic growth and prosperity. We are honoured, through our research, our concerts, and our lectures to contribute to York’s cultural life.”
Image courtesy of Ian Martindale (www.ianmartindale.co.uk).