CELEBRATIONS shifted to a period of poignant reflection as students remembered a friend and a tutor who were with them in spirit only as they graduated from college.
As he delivered the valedictory address, counselling student Richard Folkes paid tribute to Darlington College lecturer Chris Hall and his friend and colleague Em Williams, who both died suddenly this year.
Paula Rogers, the partner of Em, of Barnard Castle, collected her foundation degree in counselling issued posthumously at the ceremony staged at the Mercure Darlington Kings Hotel.
Richard told an audience of graduates, staff, family and friends: “You have done so well to get to this point and this is a really happy occasion you should savour and remember.
“But we have lost two really close, beautiful people – Em, who was our friend, and Chris, our tutor and one of the most loved people ever.
“Em was a sight to behold in her tie dye t-shirts and her rainbow coloured Crocs. She was a rainbow in every way. She was one of the most courageous people I’ve ever met who would stand up for her convictions and ask questions nobody else would ask. It is what would have made her such an incredible counsellor.
“It takes a special skill to be a counsellor and Chris taught us that. He showed us how to be genuine and to own our flaws. He showed us how to teach ourselves, which is what we have to do as counsellors. He was a really special man and that is why it is such a privilege to make this speech. I would like to say thank you for everything you taught us and inspired us to do.”
Thanks to a partnership between Darlington College and Teesside University a range of awards were handed out, including HNDs, foundation degrees, BAs in education, PGCEs, certificates in education and university certificates in continuing education.
As well as teacher training, courses being celebrated included manufacturing, electrical, electronic and mechanical engineering, mechatronics, building studies, working with children and young people, counselling, the early years sector, public services, business management and hospitality and tourism.
At the ceremony, hosted by freelance journalist and writer Peter Barron, Darlington College principal and chief executive David Gartland and Teesside University’s pro vice chancellor Mark Simpson presented the certificates.
Mr Gartland told graduates: “Higher level qualifications are difficult and given the challenges everyone faces you should all feel very proud of what you have achieved. Education is an amazing thing and can help you make a positive difference, no matter how big or small, to your friends, family and community.”
Mr Simpson added: “The last three years have been difficult for everyone because of the pandemic but you have succeeded in every aspect of your studies. The college and university are united in providing access to first class education and training across the Tees Valley.
“These achievements reflect the dedication commitment and passion of college staff who have guided you along your journey in an outstanding learning environment.”
