Birmingham Newman University has celebrated the achievements of its graduating students at this year’s Graduation Ceremonies, which took place at Symphony Hall.
The ceremonies mark a significant milestone in the academic journeys of many students who have completed undergraduate and postgraduate degrees across a wide range of disciplines.
Vice-chancellor Jackie Dunne said: “Graduation is a defining moment in our academic year, reflecting our mission to provide opportunities and shape positive futures through inclusive university education.
"It’s a privilege to celebrate not only our inspirational students, whose determination and achievements embody the values of our University, but also our honorary graduates, whose significant contributions to society we recognise because they reflect the importance of social justice, leadership, and the pursuit of knowledge.”
Founded in the tradition of Cardinal John Henry Newman, the University continues to place student-centred learning and community at the heart of its mission. Our graduates join a growing global network of Birmingham Newman alumni making a positive impact across a range of sectors.
This year’s graduation also featured the conferral of honorary degrees upon distinguished individuals who have made exceptional contributions to society and reflect the University’s commitment to social justice, education, and community service.
Honorary Awards 2025:
Pastor Gilroy Brown
In recognition of his pioneering leadership in education, his advocacy for equality and opportunity, and his lifelong commitment to community and spiritual service.
Pastor Gilroy Brown is a pioneering educational leader, community advocate and pastor whose career spans more than four decades. In 1989, he became Birmingham’s first African Caribbean male primary school headteacher, later co-founding a mentoring programme that reduced exclusions for African Caribbean pupils and shaping national initiatives to raise attainment and support diversity in school leadership.
As a school advisor and consultant, he trained aspiring headteachers and advised the Department for Education on projects to improve outcomes for BME pupils. Since 2014, he has served as pastor of Mount Shiloh Apostolic Church and co-founded the Mount Shiloh Community Initiative, working to address social issues and empower communities. He is also the author of Redeemed (2023), an autobiography reflecting on his professional and spiritual journey.
Lewis Goodall, Honorary Degree of Doctor of Letters
