University of Sussex graduation gowns 2010

This week's summer graduation began today (Wednesday 21 July) with a special commemoration ceremony to celebrate the founding of the University. 

The commemoration took place at the start of the first ceremony when guest-of-honour Lord Asa Briggs, the eminent historian, University founding father and former Vice-Chancellor, addressed an audience of students, families and friends at the Brighton Dome. 

More than 5,000 people, including 2,000 students, are expected to attend the five graduation ceremonies, spread over three days and presided over by the Chancellor, Sanjeev Bhaskar. 

More than 50 countries are represented, from Angola to Zimbabwe and from all points in between. The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Michael Farthing, said: "Graduation is a coming together of cultures and nationalities united by the common bond of education." 

He added: "Graduation offers an opportunity to reflect on the achievements of our talented students and dedicated staff, and to thank parents, families and friends for their support." 

Honorary degrees will be awarded to:

• cosmologist Professor John Barrow, a member of staff at Sussex from 1981-99 and former director of the Astronomy Centre;
• geneticist Professor Adrian Bird, a Sussex graduate and director of the Wellcome Trust;
• Robin Crane, conservationist and chairman of the South Downs Campaign;
• Peter Tatchell, human-rights campaigner and gay-rights activist.