Stanley Robertson, possibly the greatest Traveller storyteller alive today, was honoured recently by the University of Aberdeen who awarded him a M.Univ. degree at the November 2008 graduation ceremony in Elphinstone Hall.
Professor Tim Ingold of the Anthropology Dept. presented Stanley's achievements to the Principal and his colleagues as well as the assembled company.
On the platform and in the audience, were various supporters and friends of Stanley's, including Robbie Shepherd, Dr Tom McKean (Elphinstone Institute), Prof. Chris Gane (Head of Business School), Sara Reith, me (FJ), Anna Fancett (Grampian Association of Storytellers - and also getting her degree of MRes in English Lit.). Stanley's wife Johann and the family were there too in pride of place.
The P&J did him proud with a particularly spooky pic taken outside Elphinstone Hall, emphasising the Gothic arches and the cold, black night! Perfect for a Master Storyteller!
Here's the moment where Stanley had received his Master's cloak and signed his acceptance of the honorary degree...
Elphinstone Hall was a great setting, with its wooden floor and vaulted ceiling. Dr Jane Geddes of the History of Art Department said it had been several centuries since the hall had been used for graduations. She assured all the folk who had just got their degrees not to worry, because they had done their best. With an Aesop-like tale of her own of 'slow and steady' getting there at the same time as super-speedy and fit, Dr Geddes said there was hope for everyone!
Indeed - it's the first time a Traveller has been awarded a degree by this university...
Well done, Stanley, who was "jist tickled" after the event.
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