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.
The group was delighted to be there, commenting they “wouldn’t have missed it for the world”, finding it a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with former classmates and friends.
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.
Ulster University said this honorary award celebrates far more than academic achievement as it recognises a lifetime of dedication, passion and service and the lasting legacy created by those who helped inspire generations through education and sport.
1. Friendships formed through sport
Geraldine Small, Catherine Hicks, Frances Tweedie, Anne Larmour and Cecelia McQuillan reunited at Ulster University Coleraine after graduating together in 1974. The friends, who lived together during their studies, say their shared passion for sport and education created friendships that have lasted a lifetime. Photo: supplied by UU
2. Classmates reunited
Jayne Collins, Valerie Cromwell, and Anne Cromie celebrate receiving their honorary degrees together, having first graduated as classmates in 1969. Photo: supplied by UU
3. A special teacher reunion
Dr Aileen Moore, Director of Risk and Resilience at Ulster University, was delighted to reconnect with her former PE teacher from St Mary’s Grammar School, Magherafelt, during the special honorary graduation ceremony. Photo: supplied by UU
4. Celebrating a lifetime in education and sport
Honorary Graduates Freda Mathers, Ethel Sayers, and Isobel Parks celebrate a milestone that was decades in the making. The friends first met as students and graduated between 1973 and 1975 before going on to inspire generations of young people through careers as PE teachers. Photo: supplied by UU