Senior Fellowships acknowledge the recipients' contribution to society, particularly where their work in particular areas aligns closely to the University's mission, values and aims.
This year, two awards were bestowed at graduation ceremonies taking place on Tuesday 22 and Thursday 24 July.
Recognised for her contribution to education and in her role as Regent at Liverpool Hope University, Mary Reynolds began her teacher training in Liverpool at one of the institution’s founding colleges. A lifelong commitment to education followed and Mary has held roles in leadership as headteacher of three schools and director of education.
Mary said: “I am absolutely delighted and I feel honoured to be recognised. I came to Liverpool from South Wales to train in my profession. They were wonderful educators that inspired us and set standards that are still with me.”
On the value of education, Mary added, “I think it’s the passport to life; it’s what I’ve tried to do as an educator, and what others have inspired me to do. We give children and young people opportunities and then the world is their oyster. That’s what I’ve always tried to do; recognise gifts and talents. I recognise that every child, every young person, every student, is unique. Faith is at the heart of this establishment and it is evident in the way that people interact, with their values, and with the care that staff have.
“My advice to graduates is to reflect on what they’ve done to date, to look forward, and to use what they’ve learned wisely in helping others and making the world a better place.”
Former Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Gary Millar came from a humble background but was driven to make life better for himself. He faced life’s unexpected challenges head on after failing to get into an architecture course - a move to London led to Gary meeting his partner and establishing a tech firm before moving to Liverpool to study. He’s since made a life for himself in the city.
“I came from a working-class background and had a difficult upbringing but that instilled in me an entrepreneurial feeling. From a social mobility perspective to take someone from that kind of background and turn things around through good mentoring, good friendships and people that care for you, it makes a big difference.”
Gary is involved in charity work and is a believer in helping others, saying “my big mantra in life is pay it forward; we don’t expect awards or applause or thank yous, but we want other people to think in the same way and go out and do good for others.
“I wouldn’t worry about when life goes in a curveball because, actually, curveballs are amazing. I’m very open to exploring possibilities. You teach business in a linear way. You think process, business planning, cash flows; do all of that well and you’ll be successful. But it might be the conversation in the pub, the café, the launderette or in a football stadium with the person next to you might take you in a new direction. Sometimes, what happens next is completely out of your control but it’s about how you manage it; positively with the help of others."