We’re absolutely delighted for our Ann – The Rural Coffee Caravan’s Chief Exec, who officially received her honorary doctorate degree from University of Suffolk in yesterday’s culminating graduation ceremony.
Accompanied by Rural Coffee Caravan founder Canon Reverend Sally Fogden, and Ann’s husband, Mike Osborn (also an integral member of the Rural Coffee Caravan team and celebrating a special birthday on the same day), Ann shared the celebrations at the University of Suffolk’s Ipswich Campus location, on the Waterfront in Ipswich.
No stranger to talking passionately to any body of people who will listen, about the power and necessity of human need for connection, community and kindness, Ann also delivered a speech to graduating University of Suffolk Students.
“I never ever imagined myself standing here accepting this very special honour. I’m thrilled to accept it and I do so on behalf of the brilliant Rural Coffee Caravan family. This isn’t a job, it’s a way of life.
“Loneliness can affect any one of us at any time, it can be transient, it can be chronic and it can make us ill, both mentally and physically.
Connection brings a sense of belonging, of feeling safer, knowing there actually is someone, some people to turn to, to be with, to share experiences with. Conversation is our social glue, it is the thing people told us they missed most during the pandemic.”
Well done Ann! We couldn’t be prouder of you!
