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Former Dundee Science Centre chief executive recognised with honorary degree at summer graduation
Dr Isabel Bruce OBE has been awarded an honorary doctorate by Abertay University in recognition of her outstanding contribution to education, science and the third sector.
She received the honour during the University's summer graduation ceremony at Dundee's Caird Hall on Friday 10 July 2026.
A highly respected leader whose career has spanned higher education, science engagement, heritage and international development, Dr Bruce has dedicated her professional life to widening access to learning and creating opportunities for people and communities to thrive.
Most recently, she served as Chief Executive of Dundee Science Centre, where she oversaw a period of significant growth and transformation. During her five years in the role, the organisation expanded its reach through exhibitions, festivals, community outreach programmes and digital initiatives, helping to inspire curiosity and confidence in science among learners of all ages and backgrounds.
Throughout her career, Dr Bruce has held a range of executive and non-executive leadership positions across education, culture and the third sector. She is currently Chair of the David Livingstone Trust and has previously served on the boards of National Museums Scotland and the Scotland Malawi Partnership.
Her longstanding commitment to strengthening educational and cultural links between Scotland and Malawi was recognised in 2009 when she was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for services to Higher Education in Scotland and Malawi.
Accepting the award, Dr Bruce encouraged graduates to embrace unexpected opportunities throughout their careers. She said:
It is an honour for me to receive this honorary degree and I am truly grateful to the University for this recognition. I have enjoyed a great deal of satisfaction throughout my career and would encourage all graduates to remember that careers do not always follow a straight line. There will undoubtedly be twists and turns along the way. My advice is to grab every opportunity with both hands, be curious and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. You never know where an opportunity or even a conversation might lead. Some of the most rewarding journeys in my career are the ones I never planned – including my move to Dundee Science Centre.
The honorary degree oration was delivered by Dr Rebecca Wade, who highlighted Dr Bruce's leadership, commitment to inclusion and dedication to creating opportunities for people and communities to thrive.
Presenting her for the award of Honorary Degree of Doctor of Education, Dr Wade also reflected on the strong partnership between Abertay and Dundee Science Centre, which has enabled students and staff to share research, showcase innovative projects and engage with the wider community.
More than 750 students graduated alongside Abertay's honorary graduates during the ceremony, which celebrated achievements across the University's academic faculties.
Professor Liz Bacon, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of Abertay University, said:
Dr Isabel Bruce has made an exceptional contribution across education, science and the third sector throughout a distinguished career dedicated to creating opportunities for others. Her commitment to widening access to learning, championing inclusion and supporting communities has had a lasting impact both locally and internationally. We are delighted to recognise her achievements with the award of an honorary doctorate and to welcome her to the Abertay family. Her career offers a powerful example to our graduates of what can be achieved by embracing new opportunities, remaining open to different paths and using your talents to make a difference in the lives of others.
