Gary Rutherford and Geri Martin received honorary awards at the North West Regional College Higher Education and Access Graduation for the significant contribution they have made within local communities.

Gary, Founder and CEO of ARC Fitness, and Geri, Founder and Chief Chocolatier of The Chocolate Manor, were among the hundreds of students to be acknowledged as Graduates from the College’s Class of 2026 at the ceremony in the Millennium Forum.Gary

This is the sixth year NWRC has presented Honorary awards at its annual graduation ceremony – recognising individuals who have made exceptional contributions in the local community, skills development, and industry.

Gary is the Founder and CEO of ARC Fitness, an innovative addiction recovery organisation that uses physical activity, professional support, community and hope to help individuals overcome addiction and the negative impact of substance use.

Janis Scallon, Director of Further Education, DfE, Barra Best MC, Geri Martin and Gary Rutherford Honorary Award winners, and Dr. Catherine O'Mullan, NWRC.

placeholder image — Janis Scallon, Director of Further Education, DfE, Barra Best MC, Geri Martin and Gary Rutherford Honorary Award winners, and Dr. Catherine O'Mullan, NWRC.

Gary began his educational journey at NWRC completing the Access course in Health & Welfare before progressing to train as a mental health nurse. He established ARC Fitness in 2019 with a clear mission to make recovery more accessible through community-based support and exercise.

Having achieved long-term recovery from substance misuse himself, Gary has dedicated his life to helping others rebuild their lives. He has supported countless individuals in improving their physical and mental wellbeing, creating a sense of belonging, purpose, and hope within communities across Northern Ireland.

Gary was previously awarded the Royal College of Nursing Nurse of the Year Award, and in September 2026 he was named regional winner of the Pride of Britain Awards.

Geri is the Founder and Chief Chocolatier of The Chocolate Manor, an award-winning artisan chocolate business.

Her journey into chocolate-making began while on maternity leave from her role as an Events Officer at NWRC, when she enrolled on a Chocolate Making course at the College.

In 2012, Geri launched The Chocolate Manor from her home kitchen. Through passion, innovation and entrepreneurial drive, the business has grown into one of the most recognised artisan chocolate brands, attracting visitors from across the region and beyond.

She has benefited from innovation support through NWRC’s Foodovation Centre.

Geri is the Chair of Taste Causeway CIC and works closely with the NWRC Foodovation team to develop the business case for the proposed Foodovation and Skills Centre, a key project within the Causeway Coast and Glens Growth Deal.