6 July 2026
"The city centre will be awash with colour and joy bringing another boost to the continuing and stunning regeneration of Sunderland – a great place to study, live and work"
More than 3,000 students are coming together to celebrate years of hard work as they graduate from the University of Sunderland.
The University’s graduations will take place this week (Monday 6 July – Friday 10 July), the first to be held during the summer at The Fire Station at the heart of the city of Sunderland.
Students – including the nurses, teachers, filmmakers and business leaders of the future – will be gowned at the University’s YourSU@CitySpace on the City Campus before making their way over to The Fire Station where they will receive their degrees in front of proud families and friends.
During graduation week, inspirational figures who have made significant contributions in their distinctive fields of activity will receive honorary awards from the University.
This summer’s honoraries are Black Cats’ star and ‘Mr Sunderland’ himself, Luke O’Nien, and Darlington-born artist educator and visual arts’ champion, Susan Coles.
Luke, who will be awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Sport, said: “I don’t think I can find the words to express what it means.
“I’ve turned up and given my everything but without the community here I wouldn’t have this opportunity. I am unbelievably grateful and I will make sure that I will do my utmost to keep contributing to the Sunderland community the best I can.”
The ceremonies will be a week-long celebration of the achievements of the Class of 2026, extending into a city-wide celebration, creating a huge economic boost for the city’s hotels, bars, restaurants, and hospitality venues.
Sir David Bell, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive at the University of Sunderland, said: “Graduation is a time of celebration and a way for us to acknowledge publicly the outstanding achievements of the Class of 2026.
“It is also a signature moment for both the University and the city as these will be the first summer graduations held at The Fire Station, a wonderful venue for all to enjoy such splendid occasions.
“With a week of glorious weather ahead, the city centre will be awash with colour and joy bringing another boost to the continuing and stunning regeneration of Sunderland – a great place to study, live and work.”