Honorary degree 60 years in the making for Bonar Bridge librarian
Friends and members of Kyle of Sutherland Development Trust came together on Friday November 3 to honour local resident, Valerie MacKenzie-Harris, who recently received an Honorary Degree from Liverpool Hope University.
82-year-old Ms Mackenzie-Harris's remarkable journey began in 1963 when she earned a Certificate of Education from St Katherine’s College, Notre Dame, and Christ's College, displaying remarkable academic diligence.
However, it took 60 years for her dedication to be officially recognized when Liverpool Hope University conferred upon her an Honorary Degree.
Ms Mackenzie-Harris had taught in England for several years before moving north to the Highlands in 1979 when her husband secured a premises in Bonar Bridge.
After moving north, she became a mainstay in the village as the local librarian until her retirement in 2001.
She said: "Because I didn't have the certificate – which has now arrived – I couldn't teach in Scotland and would have been required to do additional study.
"But if I meet any youngsters and they are interested, I will talk to them, and if I can give them any encouragement whatsoever, I will do.
"I am still enthusiastic about passing on learning and encouraging people to learn in one way or another."
The celebration was marked by a presentation from Zoe Chambers of Lairg & District Learning Centre, highlighting the opportunities for learning available to individuals of all ages in the local area.
Professor Neil Simco, deputy principal of the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI), then delivered an inspiring speech underscoring the immeasurable value of lifelong learning.
The highlight of the event was when Professor Simco, on behalf of Liverpool Hope University, presented Ms Mackenzie-Harris with her well-deserved degree certificate.
Liverpool Hope University also sent a letter of congratulations to acknowledge her extraordinary achievement, further underscoring the significance of her contributions to education and lifelong learning.
To cap off the afternoon, attendees indulged in a mini graduation celebration, which saw a beautiful cake, lovingly crafted by Kerry from Nanny's, presented to Ms Mackenzie-Harris.
Ms Mackenzie-Harris added: "It was lovely. The cake was wonderful. To have the books on it was tremendous."
