Well-known Coleraine youth worker Eugene returns to UU for special graduation ceremony

More than 180 students of the former Ulster College of Physical Education, Ulster College, and Ulster Polytechnic have returned to Ulster University for a very special graduation ceremony – including one well known Coleraine man.

The students were awarded Honorary Degrees at the Coleraine campus in recognition of their pioneering studies, achievements, and lasting contribution to education and sport.

A family connection to Ulster University: Father and son Rory and Eugene Stewart celebrate their shared connection with Ulster University. Rory, who graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology in 2018, encouraged his dad Eugene, from Coleraine, to return for this historic ceremony. A former sports teacher who later used sport to support young offenders in community settings, Eugene said he “wouldn’t have been here today” without his son’s encouragement.

placeholder image — A family connection to Ulster University: Father and son Rory and Eugene Stewart celebrate their shared connection with Ulster University. Rory, who graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology in 2018, encouraged his dad Eugene, from Coleraine, to return for this historic ceremony. A former sports teacher who later used sport to support young offenders in community settings, Eugene said he “wouldn’t have been here today” without his son’s encouragement.

The honorary graduates were part of an innovative physical education programme delivered between 1956 and 1979, which helped establish the foundations of sport education in Northern Ireland.

The celebrations brought together a remarkable cohort of alumni, including individuals now in their 70s, 80s and a few honorary graduates in their 90s, who returned to campus to mark this historic occasion.

Father and son Rory and Eugene Stewart celebrated their shared connection with Ulster University at the event.

Rory, who graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology in 2018, encouraged his dad Eugene, from Coleraine, to return for this historic ceremony.

A former sports teacher who later used sport to support young offenders in community settings, Eugene said he “wouldn’t have been here today” without his son’s encouragement.

Following their studies, the graduates went on to shape the lives of countless young people as teachers, coaches and leaders, leaving an enduring mark on schools, communities, and sporting life across Northern Ireland and beyond.

This honorary award celebrates far more than academic achievement. It recognises a lifetime of dedication, passion and service and the lasting legacy created by those who helped inspire generations through education and sport.