Emma Harrison, a successful businesswoman who took part in the Channel Four Secret Millionaire programme recently, received an honorary doctorate from the university for her work in the field of training, both at home and abroad.

She spoke of the ambition which led her to overcome under-achievement at school and then found her own successful international company.

Emma's A4E business skills and training agency which she originally founded to retrain former Sheffield steel industry workers, has helped more than a million people.

She told students: "Go out and make a difference."

The vote of thanks on behalf of students was given by Buxton hospitality graduate Lois Rowlands, who began her studies with the former High Peak College.

She spoke about how the inspirational Dome building had brought her back to Buxton to take her studies to a higher level – despite the attraction of extending her year's work experience on Long Island in a club owned and run by millionaires, for millionaires!

A smoothly-run ceremony with no hitches saw diplomas, foundation degrees, honours degrees, masters and doctorates awarded under the Campus's magnificent Dome in the presence of Professor John Coyne, University Vice-Chancellor and Chair of the Academic Board; Dianne Jeffrey, Pro Chancellor and Chair of the Governing Council; Professor David Gray, Dean of the Buxton faculty; distinguished colleagues and local dignitaries.

It followed a grand procession through Buxton of University dignitaries and graduating students led by the Fairfield Brass Band, which made its way from the Campus to St Anne's Church for a non-denominational service and back again.

Mrs Jeffrey told the assembled graduates: "You have helped us in our vision, to be a University of quality and opportunity for all. Congratulations."

Professor Gray added: "Today's celebration is also a new beginning.
"Use your qualifications and experience well as you start the next phase of life and remember you will always be a graduate of whom the University of Derby is proud."