Toni Scullion - Doctor of Education (DEd)

Toni Scullion was awarded a Doctor of Education (DEd) from the University for her dedication to computing science education, advancing the subject in schools across the country and furthering women in technology.

Toni is founder of multi-award-winning charity dressCode, which aims to increase the uptake of computing science in schools with a focus on closing the gender gap. She also co-founded the Ada Scotland Festival, which brings together partners involved in addressing gender balance in computing science education across the country.

Toni has been teaching computing science at St Kentigern's Academy in West Lothian for over a decade. She has received several accolades recognising her work in fostering the subject, inspiring the next generation of female tech, and improving diversity. Notably, she was Secondary Teacher of the Year at the Scotland Women in Technology Awards two years running.

Her work to pioneer uptake of the Digital Technology Education Charter to inspire participation in computing science at school level elevated the issue to the nation’s tech industry and policy makers, and was recognised by the OpenUK Honours List and Futurescot’s 25 women changing the face of Scotland’s digital industry.

Professor Steve Olivier, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of RGU, comments: “Toni is a passionate advocate of computing science education and her work is testament to its importance as a subject at school level. As a University we are committed to increasing access to STEM-related subjects, including computing science, and promoting the diverse career opportunities available to young people in the Scottish tech sector.

“Toni has been widely recognised for her dedication to inspiring the next generation of technology leaders and improving gender balance in the uptake of computing subjects. I am delighted that we are able to contribute to the recognition of her work in driving inclusivity and participation with an honorary degree.”