We are always delighted to discover University of Salford alumni in unexpected places, but few encounters feel quite as full circle as meeting Robert Nathan during Graduation at The Lowry.
Robert graduated from Salford Technical College in 1975 with a Diploma in Podiatric Medicine, before returning to Salford and graduating again in 1995 with a BSc in Healthcare and Welfare. After a 50-year career in podiatry, he is now retired and volunteers as an usher at The Lowry, helping today’s students and their families celebrate their own graduations. A fitting way to pass the baton.
We grabbed five minutes with him between ceremonies to hear about his time at Salford, his life and career since graduating, and why he enjoys giving his time to support Graduation each year.
Tell us about your connection to Salford.
I graduated from Salford Technical College in 1975 with a Diploma in Podiatric Medicine. It was the Northern College of Chiropody at the time, which later became the School of Podiatry under the University of Salford.
I returned to Salford later and graduated again in 1995 with a BSc in Healthcare and Welfare.
What did you do after graduating?
I spent 50 years working as a podiatrist. I worked in the NHS, where I became a podiatry manager, and later went into private practice in Whitefield.
I spent many happy years there before retiring.
How did you become involved in volunteering?
When I retired, I went into voluntary work. I volunteer at The Lowry as an usher, as well as at the National Football Museum.
I also volunteer with the Friendship Circle, befriending people with special needs and disabilities. We take people to the cinema and theatre and on days out, so I keep very busy.
That is the way I am. I enjoy it.
What do you enjoy about volunteering at The Lowry?
Meeting the people who visit The Lowry keeps me active. I do my best to stay young, happy and healthy.
It all started at Salford, so I am very grateful to Salford. It is quite fitting that I am still connected to the University, but now in a different capacity as a volunteer at The Lowry.
What are your favourite memories of studying at Salford?
One of my favourite memories is of Mr Bradley. He would put his glasses on his head and then forget where they were.
Sometimes, he would have one pair of glasses on and another two pairs on his head. That memory has stayed with all of us.
We have lots and lots of other memories, but I will not tell you those because I might get into trouble!
Did you celebrate any special occasions at Salford?
I spent my 21st birthday at the bar at Salford with two of my friends from the School of Podiatry. We celebrated our birthdays together.
Another happy memory was helping to choose the band for one of the student balls. We went to Birmingham and chose Thin Lizzy.
A few weeks later, they released Whiskey in the Jar, which became a huge hit. That is another memory that has always stayed with me.
It all started at Salford.
We’re so pleased we ran into Robert by chance, and a reminder that Salford stories can appear anywhere. We are always delighted when they do.