Hundreds celebrate as University of Chichester students graduate at Cathedral

Hundreds of students have marked the end of their studies at the University of Chichester during a series of graduation ceremonies at Chichester Cathedral.

Graduates from across the University’s academic disciplines were joined by families, friends and staff for the celebrations.

Among those graduating was Serena Chahal from Newcastle, who achieved a First Class degree in Musical Theatre (Music) after overcoming significant personal and health challenges during her studies.

Serena began her course in 2022 but completed only one term before being diagnosed with neuroendocrine cancer.

She took time away from university for treatment and recovery before returning to her studies in 2023.

Shortly afterwards, she became the primary carer for her younger brothers while continuing with her degree.

Serena said: “It was a lot, I really just needed to focus on getting my final year done but I navigated my way through it. I think everything happens for a reason and despite the circumstances it was for the best. It gave me so much resilience and helped me learn a lot about myself.”

Her lecturer, Meredith Braun, said: “Serena is always so calm, considered and kind. She went above and beyond to work for her degree and was a real leader on her course, taking on the role of Morticia in our major production, The Addams Family. It's been wonderful to see her progression and the confidence she has built.”

Serena signed with LJP Management earlier this year and is now preparing to move to London to pursue a career in musical theatre.

Another graduate recognised for outstanding achievement was Jamie Hamilton from Eastbourne.

Jamie graduated with First Class Honours in BA Sport Management (Business) and was awarded the Kathy Blease Prize for Academic Enterprise and Engagement.

During his studies, he completed placements supporting sport-for-change projects and explored how mentoring through sport could help improve young people’s sense of belonging.

Jamie said: “I thoroughly enjoyed the course. Every lesson was engaging and left me excited to attend the next one. I also loved my placement at Greenhouse Sports, where I was able to produce research to support children's transition to secondary school.”

He now hopes to pursue a career in sport development and management, with a particular focus on making sport and physical activity more accessible and affordable.

Dr Jordan Matthews, Academic Area Lead in the Business School, said: “Jamie is the most academically gifted student I have taught in my decade of senior lecturing at Chichester. What stands out most for me is his maturity and humility. He is always willing to support classmates, embrace new opportunities and continue learning. A room full of Jamies would positively impact both the sports industry and society.”

Creativity and innovation were also recognised during the graduation awards.

Rose Pontin, from Tamworth in Staffordshire, received The Nest Award for Innovation and Creativity, supported by Chichester Festival Theatre’s creative development space.

Rose graduated with a First Class degree in Acting for Contemporary Theatre and was recognised for work spanning clowning, live art, immersive theatre and interactive performance.

As part of the award, she will receive dedicated development time at The Nest to further develop her work.

She has also recently signed with an acting agent and secured her first professional role.

Rose said: “I found my passion on this course. It helped me explore how I want to make work and what I want to create. Moving forwards, I plan to create and devise a new performance to take to fringe festivals next year, and continue growing my passion for clowning.”

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