The University was delighted to take part in the annual New York Tartan Day Parade Saturday 6 April 2024.
It is the first time the University has participated, and our alumni did not let us down! Former students travelled from the UK to join us while others came together in their adopted home in the US to celebrate all things Scottish.
Alumni joined guests and colleagues including Principal and Vice-Chancellor, Professor James Miller to proudly represent UWS in New York.
The parade brings together clans, bands, university graduates, community groups and people across the United States who celebrate their connection to Scotland and the contribution Scots have made to the USA. Emmy Award-winning Scottish actor Dougray Scott will led over 1,500 bagpipers, Scottish Americans, Highland dancers, and more up Sixth Avenue in the 26th annual NYC Tartan Day Parade.
Two new scholarship schemes commemorating the link between Scotland and the United States were also announced by Professor Miller in New York.
In total, eight post-graduate taught scholarships will be awarded to American students who wish to study in the UK.
UWS will award four Frances Wright scholarships to women and a further four Frederick and Anna-Murray Douglass scholarships to those who belong to an underrepresented racial or ethnic minority group in America.
Our new scholarship schemes recognise the strong bonds that exist between Scotland and the United States. With our scholarships we are commemorating three individuals who demonstrated the shared values of our nations and of the University of the West of Scotland as an educational institution and Scotland’s leading university for widening participation.”
Professor James Miller, Principal and Vice Chancellor, UWS
The announcement of the eight scholarships was made by UWS Principal and Vice-Chancellor, Professor James Miller at a special brunch for UWS alumni ahead of the New York City Tartan Day Parade on Saturday 6 April.
The Frances Wright Scholarship honours a trailblazer in Education, Feminism and Literature, Frances Wright. Wright, born in Dundee, was a visionary feminist, social reformer, and prolific writer. Throughout her life, she fearlessly challenged societal norms, advocating for women’s rights, abolitionism, and educational reform.
The Frederick and Anna Murray Douglass Scholarship commemorates the enduring legacy of two remarkable individuals whose courage, resilience, and dedication to social justice continue to inspire generations. A renowned abolitionist, author, and statesman, Frederick Douglass tirelessly fought against slavery and championed civil rights for all people. His wife, Anna Murray Douglass, played a pivotal role in his life, offering unwavering support and encouragement as he pursued their mission of freedom and equality.
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