Father and daughter have a masterful graduation

Father and daughter Sean and Lisa Gleeson were set to graduate on separate days from the Middlesbrough-based University of Teesside. Lisa, 23, was due to receive her Master of Science in Forensic Investigation on the Tuesday at Middlesbrough Town Hall. Her father Sean, 50, was to be awarded his Master of Science in Sport and Exercise on the following Thursday. However, the University re-arranged their graduations, so Sean could graduate in the same ceremony as his daughter.

The high-achieving duo are both from Bramley in Leeds. Sean graduated wearing an Irish national tartan kilt. He said: “My usual mode of dress is a pair of shorts from March to December but I thought it more formal to wear the kilt. I am second generation Irish so was proud to wear it, I think the kilt is a lot better to wear than a pair of long trousers.

“I enjoyed living up in Middlesbrough in a caravan and appreciated the help I received from the staff at Teesside. Although Lisa and I did not actually walk across the stage together an explanation as to why I was there was read out by the presenting master to the Vice Chancellor and audience. I thought this was very good, a nice addition to the ceremony.”

Lisa is a former pupil of St. Mary's RC Comprehensive in Menston, Ilkley. She said:  “The thing I enjoyed most about my degree was the Crime Scene Laboratory, where we examined mock crime scenes as we would in real life situations. The University thought that it would be nice for the family to celebrate together on one day. I thought this was a really nice touch and made the day that little bit more special. I felt really proud to be able to graduate on the same day as my Dad; we even had a joint official photo taken.”

Lisa’s mother and Sean’s wife Gail, 45, said: “I was really proud of them both.  When Sean got his Masters I got a little tear in my eye, sat up in my seat and started clapping like mad.”

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