BELFAST Metropolitan College awarded its first ever Honorary Fellowship Award to spinal injury pioneer, Mark Pollock, during its annual higher education graduation ceremony.
The former South Pole adventurer received the prestigious award in recognition of his outstanding personal achievements.
The Holywood man lost his sight at the age of 22, but defied his blindness by competing in ultra-endurance races across deserts, mountains and the polar ice caps, becoming the first blind man to race to the South Pole.
He also won silver and bronze medals for rowing at the Commonwealth Games before a fall from a second-storey window in 2010 left him paralysed.
Mark is now exploring the frontiers of spinal injury recovery by using aggressive physical therapy, robotic legs and connecting those working in science and medicine through global collaboration.
Joining Mark in receiving the inaugural Honorary Fellowship Award from Belfast Met were Alan Clarke, chief executive of Northern Ireland Tourist Board, and Ann McGregor MBE CEO of NI Chamber of Commerce.
Marie-Therese McGivern, principal and chief executive of Belfast Metropolitan College, said: “Belfast Met is extremely proud of each of our graduates and we would like to thank and congratulate every one of them on their dedication and passion for learning.”
Mark Pollock, Belfast Metropolitan College Honorary Fellow, added: “I am honoured to receive this significant award from Belfast Metropolitan College.
I have faced many challenges in my personal and professional life and I’m pleased that I can share my experience to help others navigate through crossroads, obstacles or turning points in their lives.
“As these graduates further their education, careers and personal journeys, I hope each of them will take some inspiration from my story and rise to the challenges they may be faced with.”
Belfast Met’s Honorary Fellowship Award recognises individuals from a range of backgrounds who have achieved excellence in their field, career or personal journey.
The Fellows are regarded as a role model for students and graduates as they continue their education and career development pathways at Belfast Met and beyond.