Distinguished Service Recognised: Gwilym Dyfri Jones Awarded Honorary Fellowship by UWTSD
The University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) has awarded an Honorary Fellowship to Gwilym Dyfri Jones in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the University and his dedicated service over more than three decades.
The award was conferred during UWTSD’s graduation ceremonies in Carmarthen in recognition of Gwilym’s commitment to higher education, Welsh-medium provision, leadership, and service to the University community.
Gwilym joined Trinity College Carmarthen in 1992 as a lecturer and went on to hold a number of senior leadership positions throughout his distinguished career. His roles included Head of the Welsh Department, Head and Dean of the Faculty of Education and Training, Associate Pro Vice-Chancellor (Welsh Medium and Bilingualism), and most recently Provost of the Carmarthen and Lampeter campuses.
Over 32 years of service, Gwilym played a pivotal role in shaping the University’s academic provision and strategic direction. He was a passionate advocate for Welsh-medium and bilingual education and made a significant contribution to the development of teaching, learning, and student experience across the institution.
As Provost, Gwilym was a key member of the University’s Senior Leadership Team, championing the interests of the Carmarthen and Lampeter campuses while also serving as an ambassador for the University among external partners, stakeholders, and local communities.
The Honorary Fellowship was presented by Professor Mirjam Plantinga.
Introducing the award, Professor Plantinga said:
“When talking to many colleagues in preparation of this speech what came through again and again was in what high regard you were held. Time and time again staff praised your support for them personally. Time for others, listening to their stories, celebrating the achievements of others, and supporting local communities became a hallmark of the final post that you held until 2024 as provost of the Carmarthen and Lampeter campuses. Gwilym’s strong sense of inclusion has always included a commitment to supporting Welsh learners. I am personally one of the beneficiaries of that commitment and for that I would sincerely like to thank you.
I am honoured that today we celebrate a life spent supporting others, on ensuring that Welsh medium education and the Welsh language continue to thrive and a life focused on the transformative power of education.”
Accepting the Honorary Fellowship, Gwilym Dyfri Jones said:
“It is a profound privilege to stand before you today and to receive an Honorary Fellowship from a university that has shaped my life for more than thirty two years. I am deeply grateful, and I accept this honour on behalf of all those who have walked alongside me throughout my journey – my family, my colleagues, and the generations of students who have given this institution its beating heart.
Today is, above all, a celebration of you – the graduates. You have reached a milestone that represents dedication, resilience, curiosity and hope. Graduation is a moment of happiness – not the fleeting kind, but the deep, quiet happiness that comes from achieving something meaningful. You, the graduates, have earned that happiness. And you carry it with you now into the next chapter of your lives. Congratulations. You have made your families proud, your lecturers proud and your university proud. Carry today with you always.”
The Honorary Fellowship is one of the highest honours bestowed by UWTSD and recognises individuals who have made an exceptional contribution to their profession, community, or to the life and work of the University.
Through his unwavering commitment to education, the Welsh language, and the University’s mission, Gwilym Dyfri Jones has left a lasting legacy that will continue to benefit future generations of students, staff, and communities across Wales.
Further Information
Arwel Lloyd
Principal PR and Communications Officer
Corporate Communications and PR
Email: arwel.lloyd@uwtsd.ac.uk
Phone: 07384 467076