Higher education graduates achieve greatness

The hard work, dedication and remarkable abilities of Walsall College’s higher education students has been celebrated at a graduation ceremony.

Over 120 members over the Class of 2022 donned caps and gowns for the event at Walsall Arena where they received certificates for achieving their qualifications at Level 4 and above. Access students who completed pre-degree, Level 3-equivalent programmes were also congratulated for gaining qualifications for university progression.

Jatinder Sharma CBE DL, Walsall College’s Principal and Chief Executive said: “It is always such an honour to see and hear of the achievements of our higher education graduates, all of whom are now equipped with the specialist skills to thrive in their chosen industry areas.”

He continued: “A university level education generates more output in the economy with businesses and communities alike also benefitting from a well-educated, professionally-developed workforce. As a college we are proud to have played our part in bringing this about and wish our graduates, their current and future employers the best going forwards.”

The ceremony also included the presentation of special awards to graduates nominated by their lecturers for making outstanding academic progress, overcoming barriers to learning and becoming role models to their peers.

These were:
Sara Korbal – STEAM faculty Higher Education Student of the Year
Nicola Campbell – Adult and Community Learning Higher Education Student of the Year
Ann Bills – Apprenticeships and Work-based Learning Higher Education Student of the Year

Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship graduate, Ann Bills was also named the college’s 2022 Overall Higher Education Student of the Year. She achieved a First Class BA Honours in Leadership and Management and applied for Chartered Management status with the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) which she passed with Distinction.

“I was over the moon with my First Class Degree and Chartered Management status so to be acknowledged and awarded by Walsall College has gone over and above my expectations,” said Ann.

She continued: “I have been in managerial roles for many years in the public sector, most recently with The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust. I am now a Senior Specialist for Improvement with Black Country Integrated Care Board; a promotion I don’t believe I would have achieved without my academic achievements thanks to Walsall College.

“This goes to show that your life and career is always full of possibilities and there are ways to keep on learning and growing that will support you, your colleagues and the organisation you represent.”

Ann added: “I would like to thank my tutors, my fellow students and family and friends who supported me through my studies, and, most importantly, my husband for always believing in me (and for proofreading!).”

Click here to find out more about higher education courses at Walsall College.