QMYOU Alumni Magazine Issue 89 March 2022 | Page 2

2 QMYOU / Principal ' s Welcome
Principal ’ s Welcome

WE CANNOT DISPUTE that the last two years have been incredibly challenging for everyone in the university sector , but despite the ongoing disruption associated with COVID-19 , Queen Margaret University has much to be proud of .

More than ever , we are aware of the incredible impact that our graduates are having on the world around them . They have risen to the challenges presented by the pandemic and are using their skills and experience to be a force for good . Their influence on the health service is clear to see and we are immensely proud to learn about the work that our graduates are doing in the NHS , amongst other areas , to help the country through the pandemic . On pages 20 and 21 you can read , first-hand , about the reallife experiences of a speech and language therapist , a nurse , and a home economics teacher , as they get to grips with their new roles and work to help others during the most difficult of times .
One of the most rewarding moments of the last year was our first outdoor graduation celebration . Despite the COVID restrictions , we were determined not to let another year go by without providing the Class of 2020 and 2021 with the opportunity to mark their graduation success . A traditional indoor ceremony was not possible , but due to a spectacular team effort , we were able to host an outdoor celebration which brought together new graduates with families , friends and staff . It was a truly joyous three-day occasion with warm sun , popping corks , swishing graduation robes , endless photo sessions , smiles and laughter . We have shared some of our photos with you on pages 18 and 19 .
Having adapted our way of living , working and studying , we are acutely aware of the impact that the last two years has had on mental health . In this edition of the magazine , we introduce you to some of our special spaces on campus which we are using to help create a positive environment for students and staff to work and relax ( see pages 5 , 6 and 7 ). On page 29 , you can also find out about our work in public health and our drive to be a ‘ healthy university ’.
The pandemic has focused much of our country ’ s attention on the health profession , but in QMYOU 88 and in this edition of the magazine , we celebrate 50 years of drama and performing arts . It has been a joy to hear about the career journeys of many of our graduates , and we are delighted that the instantly recognisable Scottish comedian Craig Hill has shared his story with us on pages 26 – 28 . You can also read about Adam Park , who has risen up the ranks at Jungle Creations in London to manage some of the biggest brands on social media . We have more fascinating graduate career stories to share with you on our ‘ 50 Years of Drama and Performing Arts at QMU ’ webpages www . qmu . ac . uk / 50-anniversary and social media posts .
In our interview with Craig Hill , the former acting student talked about finding his fit at QMU . We pride ourselves on creating a supportive atmosphere where everyone can feel comfortable . We are therefore delighted to have exceeded our initial expectations following our application for charter status of LGBT Youth Scotland . The achievement of a silver charter award from the national charity for LGBT + young people is an important step in our drive to create an inclusive university ( see page 28 for more details ).
I hope you find inspiration from some of our news stories , features and interviews . If you are a graduate , please continue to stay in touch with the University through our Alumni Office on E : alumni @ qmu . ac . uk , and if you are a member of the public or are already connected with the University , please consider talking to our Development team about different ways you can support our work .
With very best wishes Sir Paul Grice FRSE , FAcSS

2 QMYOU / Principal ' s Welcome