Opening address
Eira Hammond FCIPPdip Chair, CIPP
I extend a very warm welcome to all of our guests here today, both on the stage, and in the audience. More importantly, I want to give a very warm welcome to each and every graduand who has joined us here today to receive their academic degree. Nelson Mandela said: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world”. You might not be changing the world here today, but you’ve certainly taken steps to change the part of the world you inhabit, through your extra learning. You have definitely changed ‘your’ world! You have all worked to achieve the academic success we are celebrating today. I graduated with the CIPP back in 2002 and I know personally just how much you deserve to receive this recognition. You have every right to feel proud of your achievements. I am sure I speak on behalf of everyone here when I say we are honoured to be able to share this very special day with you. As a tutor having seen many students progress through the Foundation Degree, I have no doubt that during your studies you have come to value the network of fellow students and tutors, for support and advice. I hope you forged those relationships both in social settings as well as during tutorials, and I really hope that these are friendships that will continue as you progress further into your careers and beyond. Networking amongst payroll professionals is invaluable, as I’m sure you appreciate. I would like to mention those special individuals who are also here today. Family, friends, tutors and, in some cases work colleagues. I not only want to thank them on your behalf, I also want to thank them on behalf of the CIPP, for all the help and support they have given you during your studies. They have been on the same emotional rollercoaster as you; they know all the ups and downs you’ve been through; they’ve been there for you when you were frustrated or emotional; they’ve acted as a sounding board or proof reader when you’ve needed them; they’ve given you encouragement in order for you to succeed. So thank you all for that support, it was really appreciated by all our graduands. In giving that thanks, I’m delighted that so many of you have come along today to celebrate that success and to see your family and friends honoured for their fabulous achievement. I know that if all the graduands in the auditorium today were standing where I’m standing right now, they would want to thank all the people who have supported them during their studies.
Be proud, smile, and take just a moment when you get here to look around and just consider your fantastic achievement.
“‘You’re off to great places! Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting so… Get on your way!”
Dr Seuss said that, and you know what? As you walk across this stage to receive your all-important honour, don’t be nervous; hold your head up high, stand tall, be proud, smile, and take just a moment when you get here to look around and just consider your fantastic achievement, and most importantly, congratulate yourself. As you collect your certificates you will be ready to go off and climb your mountain! Finally, to our audience – remember this is a celebration – cheering, clapping and whooping is not an option, it is mandatory. And to our graduands – congratulations, and I hope you thoroughly enjoy your moment.
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