Honorary Fellowships awarded to champions of agriculture and animal welfare
David Finlay, Honorary Fellow.
The co-founder of The Ethical Dairy, which established a sustainable system which allows calves to stay with their mothers, has been awarded an Honorary Fellowship by SRUC.
David Finlay, who set up the Dumfries and Galloway business with his late wife Wilma, is recognised alongside Dr Niall Connell, former president of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons.
Dennis Overton, a pioneer in organic salmon farming and more recently in seaweed farming, and Helene Mauchlen, whose 25 years at the British Horse Society (BHS) has helped shape equine welfare legislation, have also been honoured.
The Fellowships were conferred at SRUC’s graduation ceremony at the Bute Hall in Glasgow, recognising the recipients’ commitment to sustainable agriculture, animal welfare, and education.
David Finlay’s pioneering sustainable practices and the integration of renewable energy technologies, has earned him multiple accolades, including BBC Farmer of the Year in 2006 and last year’s Holyrood Net Zero Award. He has significantly contributed to SRUC’s research, education, and knowledge exchange efforts.
Niall Connell, Honorary Fellow.
A respected veterinary surgeon and Chair of the RCVS Fellowship Board, Dr Connell is widely admired for his advocacy of empathy, resilience, and diversity within the veterinary profession. He has supported SRUC’s veterinary nursing students throughout their academic journeys, often leading professional declarations and celebrating key milestones.
He continues to inspire future generations of veterinary professionals through his mentorship and commitment to inclusive education.
Dennis Overton, Honorary Fellow.
A key figure in Scotland’s food and agriculture industries, Dennis Overton has held a range of senior roles including Chair of the Soil Association (2013–17), where he helped develop the Food for Life programme to improve school meals across the UK.
He was appointed as the first Chair of the Scottish Food Commission and plays an integral role in Scotland’s path towards becoming a Good Food Nation. He has also provided strategic leadership to organisations such as SAC Consulting (part of SRUC), supporting innovation and sustainability across the sector.
Helene Mauchlen, Honorary Fellow
Helene Mauchlen, meanwhile, has played a key role in the development of the Horses Welcome scheme and the Strangles Eradication and Prevention Strategy (STEPs).
She has worked closely with SRUC to expand equine education and strengthen the relationship between BHS Scotland and the institution, creating valuable opportunities for students.
Professor Wayne Powell, Principal and Chief Executive of SRUC, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome these exceptional individuals as Honorary Fellows of SRUC. Each has played – and continues to play – vital roles in advancing agriculture and animal welfare.
“Their wealth of expertise and strong networks will play a vital role in advancing our strategic vision. I’m excited about the opportunities to strengthen our collaboration in the years ahead.”
Posted by SRUC on 28/08/2025
