The University of Liverpool’s summer graduations have been taking place this week, with thousands of graduates and their guests invited to campus to celebrate.
For some Class of 2022 graduates this occasion has been made extra special as they follow in the footsteps of their loved ones.
Aron Davies (BEng Civil Engineering 2022) and his grandfather, Rob McGraw (BA Geography 1965) (pictured together above)
More than 50 years after his grandfather Rob McGraw graduated in Geography, Aron Davies celebrated receiving his first-class honours in Civil Engineering from Liverpool wearing his grandfather’s robe.
The gown was bought new in 1965 and given to Rob by his grandmother to celebrate his graduation at Liverpool, and to congratulate him for being the first family member to go to university.
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Eve Elizabeth Hughes (LLB Hons 2022) and her father, Mike Hughes (BA Hons Political Theory and Institutions 1989)
Class of 2022 graduate, Eve celebrated receiving her law degree in Abercromby Square, the same location her father, Mike, celebrated his degree in 1989 by recreating his picture.
Eve has secured a training contract with one of Europe’s largest commercial law firms as she embarks on her career.
Mike has enjoyed a successful career at the BBC since 1991, working as a football commentator, presenter and producer at BBC Radio Merseyside and commentating on Champions League finals, FA cup and League cup finals and more than 1,000 Premier League matches. He also covers horse racing with focus on Aintree and The Grand National and was commissioned by the BBC to do a special podcast series on the world’s most famous steeplechase.
Emily Pierce (BA Modern History and Politics 2022) and her father, James Andrew Pierce (BEng Material Science and Engineering 1991)
Making the most of her father, James’ photographs from his archive, Emily recreated his graduation pictures 30 years on from when they were originally taken.
Emily said: “Graduating from the same institution as my dad, exactly 30 years on, was a very proud and memorable moment for us both. It was incredibly heart-warming to share my graduation celebrations but to also look back at my dad’s graduation and time here in Liverpool – we will always treasure these unique photos. Liverpool University holds a special place in both our hearts.”
Luke Hodgkinson (LLB Hons Law 2022) and his father, Andy Hodgkinson (PhD Philosophy and Ethics 2006)
20 years ago I submitted my PhD here @LivUni Today I’m a proud dad ❤️ @LivUniAlumni pic.twitter.com/FguAIq0g5a
— Andy Hodgkinson (@AndyHodgkinson) July 20, 2022
LLB graduate Luke followed in the footsteps of his proud father, Andy when he graduated with a first class honours degree this week. Luke’s graduation comes 20 years after his dad submitted his thesis at the University.
The pair posed for a photo in Abercromby Square, the location where Andy studied for his PhD, to commemorate this special occasion.
Do you have a similar story? Share it with the Development and Alumni Relations team via email: alumni@liverpool.ac.uk.