News / Budge recognised with prestigious UHI honorary doctorate
FORMER education director Helen Budge MBE has been awarded a prestigious honorary doctorate by the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI).
Budge was presented with the honour at UHI Shetland’s graduation ceremony at Mareel today (Friday), in recognition of her “outstanding service to education, children and families in Shetland”.
The honorary doctorate is one of the highest recognitions the university presents, celebrating those who have made an outstanding contribution to their field.
Budge retired in September 2024 after 13 years as director of children’s services at Shetland Islands Council, having begun her journey in education in 1989 as a teacher at Urafirth Primary School.
She was responsible for the new Anderson High School and halls of residence, leading the project from its inception in 2015 through to the completion and handover of the buildings in 2017.
UHI Shetland said Budge – who was also awarded an MBE earlier this year – had dedicated herself to supporting the children and young people of Shetland to reach their full potential.
Its chief executive and principal, professor Jane Lewis, said she was “delighted” that Budge had received the honour.
“Helen has shown deep commitment to young people and their development in order that they can contribute to their local communities and our Shetland economy,” she said.
“Linked with this, Helen was instrumental in deepening the relationship between local authority education provision and our Shetland based tertiary education sector.
“Our strong and collaborative relationship with schools in Shetland allows our courses to meaningfully contribute to the skills and employment pipeline to support Shetland’s workforce needs.”
Budge said she was “completely overwhelmed” to have been recognised by the UHI this way.
“I am humbled by the very kind words related to my service in education and children’s services during my time with Shetland Islands Council,” she said.
“I have dedicated my career and service to the bairns and their families here in Shetland. The staff who have worked with me and supported the bairns and their families through my time with Shetland Islands Council have been truly amazing.
“I have always recognised the importance of the strong partnership with UHI which has enhanced the learning opportunities and skills for the bairns and staff across Shetland.
“This collaboration has been phenomenal for those who wanted to stay on island for their studies which supports the sustainability of Shetland into the future. I am honoured to have been part of this.”
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