The CDN College Hall of Fame highlights the amazing impact college graduates have on society and the different paths to success that start in college.
Launched at College Expo on 12 June 2019, the Hall of Fame has recognised 12 inspiring individuals, with the latest inductee celebrated at College Expo23 on 21 June 2023.
While new inductions are on pause for now, we continue to celebrate the achievements of colleges, staff, students, and communities through the College Awards, news stories, blogs, and research.
Check out the incredible stories of our past inductees below.
Past Inductees
Dr. Kirsty Robb
Inducted on 12 June 2019 at College Expo19, Dr. Kirsty Robb, a Forth Valley College graduate, is a leader in the fight against superbugs at the Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy. A former participant in the Homeward Bound leadership initiative in Antarctica, Kirsty started her career with an NQ in Applied Biological Studies. She said, “Forth Valley College gave me the foundation to get to where I am today.”
Gary Maclean
Gary Maclean, Scotland’s National Chef and BBC MasterChef winner, was inducted into the Hall of Fame at the CDN College Awards in 2019. A graduate of City of Glasgow College, Gary has created over 80 restaurants and mentored young chefs. He said, “It’s humbling and a privilege to be inducted, not just for me, but for City of Glasgow College and my amazing team.”
Dr. Julie McElroy
Inducted on 11 June 2020, Dr. Julie McElroy, a Glasgow Clyde College graduate, is a disability rights advocate who overcame significant challenges, including Cerebral Palsy. She holds an HND, BSc (Hons) in IT, and a PhD in Assistive Technology, receiving several awards for her contributions to disability rights. Julie said, “I hope my story inspires others to succeed.”
Richard Sagar MBE
Richard Sagar MBE, inducted on 3 December 2020, is the founder of Sagar Smart Homes. Starting at Dumfries and Galloway College, Richard’s company specialises in intelligent control systems for high-end homes. He won Gold at Worldskills Calgary in 2009 and received an MBE in 2012 for his work with young people.
Helena Good
Helena Good, inducted on 9 June 2021, is a graphic design lecturer at Edinburgh College, recognised for her 26 years of teaching and work with the Daydream Believers initiative. Helena’s innovative contributions earned her the TES FE Teacher of the Year award in 2020. She said, “This recognition highlights the incredible support I’ve received from my students and colleagues.”
Kevin Murphy
Inducted posthumously on 10 June 2021, Kevin Murphy, a Fife College graduate, was a passionate advocate for vocational education and a champion for essential skills. He pioneered the Angus Shared Apprenticeship scheme and was a long-term chair of CDN’s Essential Skills and Volunteering Network.
Jai McDowall
Jai McDowall, a graduate of Ayrshire College, was inducted on 9 December 2021. Winner of Britain’s Got Talent, Jai has supported Ayrshire College’s Passing Positivity initiative and performed on prestigious stages such as the Royal Variety Performance. He said, “It’s a complete honour to be inducted into the College Hall of Fame.”
Danielle Jam
Danielle Jam, inducted on 23 August 2022, is a graduate of North East Scotland College’s HND Acting & Performance course. She went on to star in CBeebies’ Molly & Mack and perform at the Edinburgh Fringe. Danielle said, “The College Hall of Fame is a benchmark in my career I can look back on and be proud of.”
Kayleigh Haggo
Inducted on 24 August 2022, Kayleigh Haggo, a graduate of Ayrshire College, has broken 13 world records and won three gold medals at the European Paralympic Youth Games. Now a Disability Sport Inclusion Officer, she continues to inspire through coaching and advocacy. She said, “I really felt a sense of belonging at college.”
John Frace MBE
John Frace MBE, inducted on 24 August 2022, is a graduate of UHI Argyll. He created Travelling Tabby, a widely used COVID-19 data tracker, and received an MBE in 2022 for his services to public health communication. He credits his college education for equipping him with the skills to make a global impact.
Edith Bowman
Inducted at the College Awards on 25 November 2022, Edith Bowman, a graduate of Fife College, is a renowned broadcaster across radio, TV, and podcasting. She credits her college course for laying the foundation of her successful career. She said, “The course at Fife College really helped me on my journey.”
Darren McGarvey
Darren McGarvey, inducted on 21 June 2023 at Virtual College Expo23, is a Glasgow Clyde College graduate known for his powerful social commentary. Author of Poverty Safari, Darren supports journalism students at his former college and advocates for further education. He reflected, “Returning to college helped me find my voice and shape my career.”