It was wonderful to finally acknowledge the achievements of this determined and resilient cohort of students, who had their studies so impacted by Covid 19, at the recent graduations for both undergraduate and postgraduate studies.
This month we gathered with the finalists of 2021 to belatedly celebrate the achievements of the cohort who completed their degrees in the midst of the covid pandemic. We had absolutely great weather for this buoyant occasion, meeting informally in Canterbury before the graduation at Canterbury Cathedral. It was really wonderful to see everyone again.
‘What makes us quite distinct from other animals is our ability to ask questions, I shall hope you never stop doing so and keep learning.’
Speaking at the event, Head of School Dr Tanya Humle congratulated everyone for their endurance and resilience, studying through such extraordinary times and spoke of the ongoing journey of this special cohort.
‘I know many of you chose to come to SAC to do a degree in Anthropology, Conservation or Environmental Social Sciences because you were curious about the world around you and humans within it. And that during your time with us and beyond, you have gained the skills you need to understand humans and our impact on our world, be it within a corner of Canterbury or as far away as West Africa or southern Europe. We know you will go on do great things!’
Humle presented the prizes for 2021:
The Worcester Prize for DICE, donated by the fifth Chancellor of University of Kent, Sir Robert Worcester and is awarded to an outstanding undergraduate student from DICE, this year to, Lara Bazzu.
The Maurice Swingland Prize was donated by Professor Ian Swingland in memory of his late father Maurice Swingland. This prize is awarded to the best Masters student taught by DICE through coursework and dissertation on any of its conservation programmes and was awarded jointly to Jack Galloway and Emily Rampling.
The Mike Walkey Prize is a prize awarded to the best postgraduate student completing an MSc, MPhil or PhD by research in DICE awarded for 2021 to Dr Thirza Loffeld
‘Those of us who work in the School never cease to be amazed and inspired by your enthusiasm, your novel ideas and your energy’ Humle concluded, ‘we are all so proud of you, our alumni; we do encourage you to stay engaged with us, inspire the next generation of students, so do please share your contact details so you can be full members of our alumni network and see how you can be involved.’
