A Journey of Love and Learning: Teesside University Graduates Celebrate Together

May 22, 2025, 9:14 pm
Teesside University International Business School
Teesside University International Business School
BusinessCultureDevelopmentEdTechEnterpriseLearnManagementResearchSocialUniversity
Location: United Kingdom, England, Middlesbrough
Employees: 1001-5000
Founded date: 1927
In a world where paths often diverge, two souls found their journey intertwined. Dr. Nathan Coles and Dr. Lucy Butler, both 27, celebrated a monumental achievement at Teesside University. They graduated with PhDs in Biochemistry, marking the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. Their story is not just about academic success; it’s a testament to love, resilience, and the power of shared dreams.

Their journey began in the innocent halls of Whinstone Primary School in Ingleby Barwick. From childhood friends to academic partners, their bond deepened over the years. They navigated the corridors of All Saints Academy and Bede Sixth Form together, laying the groundwork for their future. The seeds of ambition were sown early, and they blossomed at Teesside University.

Both Nathan and Lucy pursued their undergraduate degrees at Teesside, with Lucy focusing on biological sciences and Nathan on biomedical sciences. They didn’t just aim for the stars; they reached them, graduating with First Class honors. Their academic prowess was evident, but it was their shared commitment to each other that truly set them apart.

The couple's journey took a significant turn during their PhD studies at the National Horizons Centre. This state-of-the-art facility became their academic home. It was here that they not only honed their research skills but also nurtured their relationship. They became a couple in 2021, solidifying their bond amid the rigors of academic life. Their engagement this year was the cherry on top of their shared journey.

Lucy now serves as a lecturer in bioinformatics at the University’s School of Health & Life Sciences. Her passion for teaching is palpable. She speaks of the National Horizons Centre with pride, highlighting its cutting-edge resources and supportive environment. It’s a place where dreams take flight, and Lucy’s career is a testament to that.

Nathan, too, reflects on the impact of Teesside University. He completed a Master of Research before embarking on his PhD. The University has shaped their lives, both personally and professionally. They are not just graduates; they are part of a community that values growth and connection.

Graduation week at Teesside University is a celebration of achievement. The new £42 million Digital Life building serves as the backdrop for this momentous occasion. It’s a space designed to transform digital and technology education in the Tees Valley and beyond. The building is a symbol of progress, a beacon of hope for future generations.

The ceremonies are a spectacle. Graduands and their guests gather, their faces lit with pride and anticipation. The atmosphere buzzes with excitement. This year, the ceremonies are particularly special, as they are the first to be held in the Digital Life building. It’s a fitting venue for a celebration of academic success.

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Paul Croney, expressed pride in the graduates. His words resonate with the spirit of the occasion. Graduation is not just a ceremony; it’s a rite of passage. It’s a moment to reflect on the journey, to acknowledge the hard work, and to look forward to the future.

As the ceremonies unfold, the sense of community is palpable. Friends and family gather to support their loved ones. The Campus Heart and Students’ Union serve as additional venues, broadcasting the proceedings on big screens. It’s a collective celebration, a shared experience that transcends individual achievements.

For Nathan and Lucy, this moment is the culmination of years of dedication. They have made lifelong friends, discovered their passions, and built a future together. Their story is a reminder that education is not just about degrees; it’s about the connections we forge along the way.

As they step into the next chapter of their lives, the couple is excited about the future. They are proud to be part of the Teesside University community, a place that has nurtured their growth. Their journey is far from over; it’s just beginning.

The graduation ceremonies will continue throughout the week, culminating in traditional summer graduations in July. Each ceremony is a celebration of potential, a reminder that education opens doors. It’s a chance for graduates to reflect on their achievements and envision their futures.

In a world that often feels divided, stories like Nathan and Lucy’s remind us of the power of connection. Their journey from primary school to PhD is a testament to love, perseverance, and the pursuit of knowledge. As they stand together, diplomas in hand, they embody the spirit of Teesside University—a place where dreams are nurtured, and futures are forged.

In the end, graduation is more than a ceremony. It’s a celebration of life’s possibilities. For Nathan and Lucy, it’s a milestone in a shared journey, a stepping stone to new adventures. Their story is a beacon of hope, inspiring others to chase their dreams and embrace the power of education.