On 15 November 2025, the Winter Graduation Ceremony for the Class of 2025 was held in the DH Lawrence Auditorium at the University of Nottingham Ningbo China (UNNC). The campus was filled with a blend of bittersweet parting and anticipation for the future. More than 900 graduates, dressed in academic gowns, celebrated this significant milestone in the company of their teachers, friends, and families.
At 9:30 am, accompanied by melodious music, the mace – symbolising academic dignity and the spirit of inquiry – solemnly led the procession of the platform party to their seats. The first ceremony then officially commenced under the direction of Professor Jon Garibaldi, Provost and Pro-Vice Chancellor of UNNC.
In her welcome speech, Professor Zoe Wilson, Pro-Vice Chancellor for the Faculty of Science of the University of Nottingham, bid farewell to the students with a speech themed "UNNC Compass". "The future world is full of change and opportunity," she said. "The unique strengths you have acquired at UNNC – confidence built on capability and resilience, confidence sustained through lifelong learning, and a commitment to doing good – will steer you through the future. The world needs leaders with innovative spirit and empathy, and I firmly believe you are ready."
Professor Jane Norman, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nottingham, conveyed her congratulations in the ceremony handbook: " I look forward to seeing everything you go on to achieve after today. This is the pinnacle of one great achievement, but you will go on to great things and celebrate many future achievements too. Enjoy your celebrations – this will be a day you remember for the rest of your life, and l wish you all the very best for your next steps."
As the solemn music resounded, the degree-conferral ceremony officially began. Graduates stepped steadily onto the stage one by one. They smiled, bowed to the faculty, and received their hard-earned degree certificates with both hands.
During the ceremony, individuals and groups who had made outstanding contributions and achieved exceptional results were presented with honorary awards.
In recognition of their distinguished contributions, UNNC conferred the title of Honorary Professor upon Professor Pingzhi Fan, Professor Axèle Giroud, and Professor Kewei Tang. Professor Giampaolo Buticchi, Professor Jing Dai, Professor Hong Deng, Professor Michael Wormstone, and Professor Tao Wu were awarded the title of Chair Professor for their academic excellence. Additionally, Professor Jing Dai received the Vice-Chancellor’s Medal for her exceptional achievements.
Carrying this inner warmth and strength with them, they will begin their careers with renowned domestic and international employers after graduation, including Ernst & Young, Export-Import Bank of China, JD.com, KPMG, Ningbo Tech University, and Schneider Electric.
Time moves on, and new chapters unfold. May the Class of 2025 at UNNC aim high, embrace bright prospects, and shine brilliantly at every step!
Published on 17 November 2025