In memory of Neil Ashdown

Neil Ashdown was a member of the Digital Team in Marketing at Manchester Met, and was largely responsible for the creation of the Degree Show website, from the very beginning (Nearly 15 years ago). He sadly passed away in April 2026, and this page is a tribute to Neil and the lasting contribution he made to the Manchester School of Art Degree Show.

Neil loved the Degree Show. He was hugely passionate about supporting students and recognised the importance of the Degree Show in showcasing their work. He recognised early on how a digital degree show would enhance the main physical show, bringing vision and innovation to the project.

We hope you enjoy the 2026 Degree Show whether that's in person or here online. If you'd like to visit previous versions of the degree show website you can click the link below.

View our previous degree show websites