Mr David Jones FRCS, RCS Ed (Orth) – Orthopaedic surgeon and medical leader, honoured for his outstanding contribution to public service in health.
A distinguished orthopaedic surgeon, Mr David Jones FRCS, FRCS Ed (Orth) has dedicated his career to advancing orthopaedic and trauma care generally and children’s orthopaedics in particular. Originally from Ireland, he studied medicine at Manchester University. His orthopaedic training was based at St Bartholomew’s Hospital, London before moving to Bangor, where he led the team which established the pioneering Accident Unit at Ysbyty Gwynedd, a model later recognised as gold standard across the UK. He went on to serve as Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon at Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children. A former Hunterian Professor and Council Member of The Royal College of Surgeons of England, President of the British Orthopaedic Association and President of the Welsh Orthopaedic Society, David has published widely, lectured internationally, and though retired, continues to contribute to medical education, history of medicine and charitable work involving children.
Benjamin Pritchard PLY – Paralympic rower and Bangor University alumnus, honoured for his extraordinary sporting achievements and inspirational journey.
An inspirational athlete and Bangor University alumnus, Benjamin Pritchard graduated in 2013 with an LLB in Law before going on to achieve remarkable success in para-rowing. Born and raised in Mumbles, South Wales, Benjamin was a former cyclist and triathlete before a life-changing cycling accident in 2016 left him paralysed from the waist down. During rehabilitation at Stoke Mandeville Hospital, he discovered rowing and quickly rose through the ranks, joining the GB Para Rowing Team in 2017. Making his international debut in 2019, Benjamin has since represented Great Britain at multiple championships, becoming a European Champion, World and European Record Holder, and World Champion. A particular highlight was winning Gold in the PR1 men’s single sculls at the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games, where he set the new Paralympic record. His determination, resilience, and sporting excellence continue to inspire athletes across the UK.
Dr Leanne Cullen-Unsworth – Marine scientist, conservation leader, and Bangor University alumna, recognised for her pioneering work in seagrass conservation and sustainability.
An inspiring scientist, conservationist, and leader, Dr Leanne Cullen-Unsworth graduated from Bangor University with an MSc in Environmental Protection (2001). Named one of the BBC’s 100 Women of 2023, she is a pioneering voice in marine conservation and sustainability. As Chief Executive Officer of Project Seagrass, Leanne leads global efforts to protect and restore seagrass meadows - vital ecosystems that support fisheries, biodiversity, and climate resilience. With over 20 years of interdisciplinary research experience, her work bridges environmental, social, and economic sciences to promote conservation that includes people as part of the ecosystem. A passionate advocate for nature and future generations, Leanne continues to raise global awareness of seagrass conservation and its crucial role in protecting our planet.
Judith Batchelar OBE – Food industry leader and sustainability champion, recognised for her contribution to scholarship, innovation and leadership in food, farming and sustainability.
A leading figure in food, farming, and sustainability, Judith Batchelar OBE is a biochemist and nutritionist who has spent over 40 years transforming the UK’s food industry. After beginning her career in pharmaceuticals and teaching, she held roles at Bass, Mars, and Marks & Spencer, before joining Sainsbury’s as Director of Sainsbury’s Brand (2004–2021), driving innovation, quality, and sustainability. Deeply committed to environmental and social progress, Judith is involved with numerous organisations, among them UKCEH, Defra, the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, the British Nutrition Foundation, The Nature Conservancy, and is Chair of the Advisory, Board Healthy and Sustainable Places Data Services at Leeds University. Judith was the head judge for the Bangor University Innovation and Leadership Training Award programme in April 2023. A Fellow of the Institute of Food Science and Technology and the Royal Society of Arts, she was awarded an OBE in 2015 for services to farming and the food industry.
Winter Graduation will take place over three days, celebrating the achievements of students from across the University alongside these distinguished honorary graduates.
More information about Winter Graduation can be found at: https://www.bangor.ac.uk/graduation