Alliance Awards 2025 – Meet the nominees
This year’s Alliance Awards sees a total of 43 outstanding nominees shortlisted across nine categories.
Take a look at a short overview of each of their considerable achievements below!
Industry Partnerships Award – shortlisted nominees
Careers and Employability Service, Middlesex University
Middlesex University’s Careers and Employability Service partner with industry to solve business problems and enhance graduate outcomes. Launched in September 2024, the initiative formed 85+ partnerships in North London, engaging over 900 students in consultancy briefs, assessments, and placements. It progressed from project-based modules to fully funded internships with Barnet Council and local stakeholders.
These paid opportunities bridge skills gaps and boost employability. Collaboration with the West Hendon Business Association secured £6,200 for marketing support. The MDX Internship Scheme supported 16 businesses, with employers reporting high satisfaction, with 90% willing to collaborate again.
LGCHT Aviation team, University of West London
UWL’s partnership with WizzAir, known as the WizzAir Lab, enhances aviation education and regional economic growth. It enriches UWL’s curriculum by integrating industry expertise, offering hands-on experience, and developing bespoke online degree courses for WizzAir employees. Students work on real-world tasks, like creating new ancillary products, and pitching ideas to WizzAir executives. Industry professionals provide feedback, ensuring the curriculum is aligned with industry needs and relevant. Winning proposals, such as selling unsold seats and ride-sharing taxi services, showcase students’ solutions and strategic thinking. This collaboration fosters innovation, impacts teaching and learning, and contributes to economic growth and job creation.
Natalie Allen, Head of Business Partnerships, Leeds Beckett University
Working across West Yorkshire (WY), Natalie delivers outstanding results. Selected to chair the WY Regional Development Group (WYRDG) for her inclusive style and solution-focused approach, under her leadership, the WYRDG shaped the WY Investment Zone (IZ), which was awarded £160m.
Natalie coordinated a programme where four Yorkshire universities collaborate based on their respective strengths. Subsequently, the Mayoral Authority chose Natalie to lead a £1.7m bid for an IZ-funded academic brokerage service on behalf of WY HEIs.
Natalie also works on Leeds’s Innovation Village, secured £1m for a Sport-Health Incubator. and her partnership with Exemplas Ltd has supported over 300 SMEs.
Net Zero Industry Innovation Centre (NZIIC), Teesside University
NZIIC leverages Tees Valley’s industrial heritage to lead in net zero technology, driving local, national, and global change. Tees Valley’s dynamic cluster, including NZIIC, will be the first globally to install large-scale decarbonising infrastructure, awarded ‘Track-1’ status by the UK Industry Strategy Challenge Fund.
NZIIC has worked with 200 stakeholders, supporting 24 enterprises, introducing 11 new products, and innovating 15 product lines. Industry partnerships are core to NZIIC’s success, driving investment and reinforcing the region as a premier destination for net zero initiatives, influencing policy, and contributing to global projects.
Teaching Innovation Award – shortlisted nominees
Social Work Team, Anglia Ruskin University
The social work team at ARU employs creative pedagogies centered on apprentice learning. Classrooms are inclusive of those with learning differences and disabilities (LDD), offering fidgets, movement breaks, creative practices, wellbeing check-ins, and video feedback. Teaching is sometimes delivered outside to promote wellbeing. This approach fosters open discussion and enhanced learning, receiving excellent feedback.
With 30% of apprentices diagnosed with LDD, the team openly discusses neurodiversity strengths. They are developing a curriculum that embeds virtual learning for interprofessional relationships. Sessions start with reflective wellbeing check-ins, improving compassionate resilience. The team presents practices at national conferences, achieving high pass rates and attainment.
The Future Skills workstream team, Kingston University
Kingston University’s Future Skills model, based on research with businesses, prepares students for career success. Surveying over 2,000 business leaders annually for three years, the team transformed the undergraduate curriculum, embedding graduate attributes in every course. In 2024-25, 9,000 first and second-year students learned and were assessed on these skills. By 2026-27, 4,400 final-year students will join the programme. Collaboration across services and academics enabled scalability.
In 2024, the Explore programme launched, engaging 4,000 students with industry experiences. Parliamentarians praised the initiative, with Sir Ed Davey advocating for its nationwide rollout to enhance quality of life.
Immersed Festival, University of South Wales
Immersed Festival is an interdisciplinary initiative empowering 500+ students annually from 15 degree programmes to plan and deliver a 1,000-capacity event.
Launched in 2019, it integrates academic and industry collaboration, developing expertise in programming, production, broadcasting, marketing, and sustainability. The festival fosters student leadership, enhances employability, and aligns with institutional goals.
Its digital platform, Immersed TV, ensures inclusive participation and broadens impact. Attracting £100K+ in funding and generating £39K+ in revenue, it has reached 50K attendees and gained international recognition. Immersed exemplifies innovative teaching, transforming higher education, the creative economy, and the student experience.
Abigail Green, Associate Professor of Clinical Simulation, School of Health and Life Sciences, Teesside University
Abigail Green’s Beyond Preceptorship programme, developed with County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust, transforms early career development for nurses, midwives, and allied health professionals. It immerses participants in a real case-based patient journey, simulating hospital wards, emergencies, and legal proceedings.
The adaptable design allows dynamic learning, reflection, and feedback. Participants engage in interdisciplinary scenarios, improving communication, leadership, and clinical judgment. They also contribute to service improvement meetings.
Evaluation showed 100% of students met learning outcomes, 87.5% were highly satisfied, and the session scored 9.4/10. Abigail’s innovative use of simulation technology empowers confident, thoughtful healthcare professionals.
Research and Innovation Impact Award – shortlisted nominees
Arnaud Aimale-Troy, Research Assistant at the University of South Wales
Arnaud’s research is revolutionizing sustainable wastewater treatment with the OXYHYWATER system, using pure oxygen from renewable electrolysis.
Partnering with Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water and SERC, he built a lab-scale reactor with PID-regulated oxygen injection. His findings show pure oxygen boosts treatment efficiency, reduces sludge production, and cuts greenhouse gas emissions.
Arnaud also co-led a pilot-scale bioreactor treating real sewage, with real-time emissions monitoring. He developed a techno-economic model for green electrolysers at treatment sites, demonstrating cost and energy savings. His work supports scalable, real-world solutions for decarbonising wastewater treatment and achieving net-zero targets.
Dr. Laura Abbott, Associate Professor (Research) at the University of Hertfordshire
Dr. Laura Abbott, a researcher, midwife, educator, and advocate, has transformed maternal justice. Her research on pregnant women in prison led to the Sentencing Council recognising pregnancy as a mitigating factor in sentencing in April 2024.
As Principal Investigator of the ESRC-funded Lost Mothers project, she elevated unheard voices into public discourse. Her co-created stage production, Scenes from Lost Mothers, has engaged diverse audiences. Dr. Abbott is a prominent media commentator and mentor, inspiring new practitioners in prison midwifery. Her interdisciplinary work exemplifies how academic research can drive real-world change, influencing policy and championing marginalised mothers’ rights.
Professor Katie Featherstone, Director of the Geller Institute of Ageing and Memory at the University of West London
Professor Katie Featherstone has led UWL’s Geller Institute of Ageing and Memory (GIAM) since 2021. Her research on dementia patients’ continence care revealed a ‘pad culture’ where patients were left to wet themselves due to time pressures and staff shortages.
Her findings gained national attention through media coverage and led to collaborations with parliamentary groups and the NHS. Since 2024, her recommendations have been adopted by the NHS Supply Chain, and she joined the NHS Acute Continence Working Group. Katie has grown GIAM into a £4.7m research centre, ensuring dignity for dementia patients.
Dr. Mirna Guha, Deputy Head of School, Humanities and Social Sciences, and Senior Lecturer in Sociology at Anglia Ruskin University
Dr. Guha is nominated for improving domestic abuse and sexual violence (DASV) services across England. Her research featured on BBC News, and addresses culturally non-responsive services for racially minoritised DASV victims-survivors and the lack of visible leadership of Black and racialised women in East England.
She advises Peterborough Women’s Aid on the Dahlia Project, supporting 200 Asian-heritage women. Since June 2024, Dr. Guha has implemented a leadership model for 25 isolated women practitioners, funded by a Medical Research Council grant. Her work is an innovative blueprint for inclusive leadership in public services, ensuring equity for minoritised victims-survivors.
Heroes Award – shortlisted nominees
Dr Homeira Shayesteh, Senior Lecturer in Construction, Architecture and BIM at Middlesex University
Dr. Homeira Shayesteh, who joined Middlesex in 2017, leads the BSc Architectural Technology programme. Her work addresses a London skills shortage and provides a pathway to Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists membership.
The course aligns with UN Sustainability Goals and serves as a best practice model. Students engage in real-world projects, including a funded delegation to Dubai for the Burj Azizi construction. Dr. Shayesteh has facilitated student research presentations to policymakers and promoted architectural technology careers to local students. She also judges the MIT National Innovation Competition.
Thuy Mason, Senior Lecturer at Kingston University
Thuy Mason positively impacts others through her inclusive initiatives and expertise in regulatory affairs, improving graduate employability.
Her curriculum design earned her a finalist spot in the TOPRA Education Awards. Thuy’s pastoral leadership led to weekly ‘student clinics,’ boosting NSS scores. She supports students’ mental resilience and secured funding for research internships.
Thuy champions sustainability and shares ideas globally. As chair of the Ethnically Diverse Staff Network, she tackles racism and promotes art exhibitions. Thuy’s innovative teaching methods and commitment to diversity have earned her multiple accolades, including the Kingston University People Award for inclusivity.
Peter Garrod, University Secretary at the University of Greenwich
Peter leads one of the best governance teams in the sector. A recent external governance review praised the University of Greenwich as a stand-out leader in best practice. This supports the university’s strategy and helps navigate sector challenges. Peter also spearheaded the response to the new E6 registration condition, creating a sexual health and wellbeing module benefiting 11,000 students, praised for its practical advice.
Additionally, he oversees legal functions, compliance, and health and safety, earning recognition for his COVID-19 efforts. Peter’s dedication and leadership make the Greenwich community safer and more resilient. He is an unsung hero.
The UWE Bristol Centre for Music
The Centre offers the largest free extra-curricular music programme in UK HE, engaging over 1200 students in six months.
It supports mental wellbeing and campus culture through diverse opportunities for all musical backgrounds. A new recording studio provides 1500 hours of free access. Collaborations with BBC Introducing 1Xtra and other initiatives support student musicians.
The Centre’s Brass Band competed nationally, and the orchestra performed under a Concorde plane. “All Together Now” combats loneliness through singing. The Centre exemplifies how creativity and inclusion enrich campus life, despite UWE not offering Music BAs.
Local Impact Award – shortlisted nominees (supported by UCAS)
Teesside Sport, Teesside University
Teesside University Sport (TUS) partners with Middlesbrough Football Club Foundation (MFC) to facilitate community access to sport. Their annual Ramadan Football event brings together students and residents of all faiths for evening activities after fasting. 205 people participated, with 370 attendances, representing 13 ethnicities.
TUS supports MFC’s Kicks Project, engaging young people in football and workshops like No Room for Racism. This initiative has increased engagement, especially from young women, with 3,871 engagements year to date. Following social unrest in 2024, TUS and MFC played a key role in community recovery: reopening facilities and planning a summer football tournament.
Denis Law Legacy Trust (DLLT), Robert Gordon University
DLLT partners with RGU to reduce youth crime and anti-social behaviour, improve health and wellbeing, and promote inclusivity through sport and creative activities. They provide free, safe environments in local communities. DLLT and RGU have created hundreds of positive destinations for Northeast youngsters.
Participation has grown annually since 2014, with over 25,000 overall participations in 2024. Streetport recorded 24,000+ participations and 1,626 volunteer instances. Club 10 delivered 345 prison sessions with 650+ participations. DLLT also established three Cruyff Courts, reducing youth annoyance by 50%. The new Denis Law RGUplus Award celebrates volunteering, with 32 awardees so far.
Trusted Adult Scheme, Anglia Ruskin University
Since 2023, the Trusted Adult Scheme (TAS) has supported children and young people (CYP) in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. TAS provides safe spaces, mentorship, and guidance through strategic partnerships and dedicated volunteers.
Running during school holidays and term time, TAS offers activities like music recording, street art, gym access, and hot meals. CYP aged 14-19 with social workers are referred to the scheme. Since its inception, 91 CYP (65.7% male, 35.3% female) have regularly attended. Participants feel safe and engaged, with practitioners praising the scheme’s impact. Led by a dedicated team, TAS addresses local community needs.
Hope 4 The Community, Coventry University
Hope 4 The Community CIC (H4C), founded in 2015 by Prof Andy Turner and volunteers, supports those with long-term health conditions through evidence-based self-management programmes.
Originating from Coventry University’s Research Centre for Intelligent Healthcare, H4C combines positive psychology, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioural therapy to enhance participants’ quality of life. Their programmes, including the Hope Programme, have reached over 30,000 people through partnerships with 28 organizations.
Evaluations show improved self-management and mental wellbeing, reducing healthcare use. H4C’s initiatives, based on 25 years of research, empower individuals and alleviate the burden on the NHS and local care providers.
Equity and Opportunity Award (supported by Duolingo English Test) – shortlisted nominees
Brighton Boost, University of Brighton
Brighton Boost addresses cost-of-living pressures for students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. Within six weeks, a cross-institutional team developed a support package providing up to £1,250 for essential costs, a free technology loan scheme, a Student Jobs Hub, and Brighton Students’ Union Essentials.
Since its launch, there has been an increase in students from IMD quintiles 1-3, care-experienced, and estranged backgrounds choosing Brighton.
The initiative aligns with the Access and Participation Plan and shows early signs of improving retention and engagement. Brighton Boost 2024: 2,880+ first-year students in the Jobs Hub, 623 in accommodation support, 402 in travel support, 112 laptop loans, and 1,300 students supported by BSU Essentials.
Disability Team, Teesside University
Teesside University’s Disability Team provides free, rapid assessment and diagnosis of Specific Learning Disabilities (SpLD) by educational psychologists. This unique service has assessed 238 students and aims for 350 by Sept 2025.
It effectively identifies SpLD and ensures support and reasonable adjustments. 76% of assessed students had undiagnosed SpLD, and 93% of diagnosed students access support plans. Diagnosis significantly impacts students’ academic and personal lives, with 89% believing they would have struggled without it.
The service has reduced the continuity gap by 20.7pp and the attainment gap by 7.4pp, boosting confidence and wellbeing for 88% and 93% of students, respectively.
KU Cares – Young Adult Carer Support, Kingston University
KU Cares has supported Young Adult Carers (YACs) since 2015. In 2021, KU Cares conducted research on YACs’ support needs, revealing that many YACs at Kingston University belong to groups prioritized by the APP, such as BAME backgrounds, long commutes, and disabilities.
The research identified four main challenges: managing responsibilities, navigating university support, financial difficulties, and wellbeing impacts.
In response, KU Cares implemented tailored advice, flexible paid work, increased bursaries, and community events. The 2024 evaluation showed positive impacts, with higher retention and similar progression and attainment rates compared to non-KU Cares students.
‘That’s Me!’ Project Team, Birmingham City University
A partnership between BCU and the University of Wolverhampton, ‘That’s Me!’ addresses inequalities for Global Majority (GM) students in HE.
The project aims to eliminate barriers to postgraduate research (PGR) study for GM students, fostering inclusive cultures and employment environments. With 12 research teams, the project co-creates outputs with GM PGRs. Extensive research involving 500+ stakeholders informs institutional changes like cultural awareness training and inclusive processes.
A bespoke careers series guides PGRs through career planning, and a reverse mentoring pilot (30 mentee/mentor pairs) has been successfully delivered. PGRs’ successes are shared to inspire others to pursue their research ambitions.
Global Impact Award
Dr Neelam Raina, Director of Research, Middlesex University
Dr Raina’s collaborative research delivers training and education on design and enterprise to women in remote, conflict-affected situations.
She won an AHRC Grant to cross-apply her doctoral hypothesis on post-conflict reconstruction in Indian Kashmir, to Azad Kashmir in Pakistan. Co-creating knowledge with women employed in an informal sector (UNSDG5, UNSDG1) within contexts of conflict and war (UNSDG16). She scaled this work through research grants in Iraq, Kurdistan, and through the UKRI GCRF Gender, Justice and Security Hub in India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan. Raina was seconded to UKRI and was instrumental in the signing of a Knowledge Partnership between UKRI and UNDP New York.
Dr Olly Bartlett, Senior Lecturer, University of Hertfordshire
Dr. Bartlett’s research significantly contributes to UN SDGs 13 (Climate Action) and 15 (Life on Land). With Dr. Tom Roland, he tracked the greening of the Antarctic Peninsula from 1986-2021, likely due to climate change. Published in Nature, this work impacts biodiversity conservation and biosecurity in vulnerable ecosystems.
The research, featured in nearly 600 articles, has global reach: Dr. Bartlett appeared on NPR and RedeTV News, and his study is frequently mentioned on Nature’s Altmetric platform. Remarkably, this unfunded project was initiated during his PhD. His dedication enhances the UK’s environmental science standing and demonstrates individual impact on global challenges.
Professor Michael Sweet, Professor of Molecular Ecology at the University of Derby
The UN SDG14, Life Below Water, emphasises the importance of oceans. Tropical coral reefs, home to 25% of marine life, sustain jobs and provide income for economies. A recent study by Professor Sweet and colleagues shows over 40% of coral species face extinction.
One of the team’s biggest achievements was ‘breaking the code’ of spawning in laboratory settings, a technique since adopted by 16 institutions worldwide. Sweet has been seconded twice by the UN as an expert on the impact of plastics on marine ecosystems, recently leading the 3rd World Ocean Assessment of coral reefs.
His team are currently working on three interdisciplinary Indian Ocean projects – centred around the idea that restoration and conservation can be funded via income generated by sustainably-run businesses.
Solar cookers in Rwanda, Coventry University
Coventry University researchers introduced solar-powered cookers to households in Rwanda, improving life for communities with limited energy access.
The Solar Energy Transitions (SET) project, led by Dr. Jonathan Nixon and Dr. Alison Halford, installed solar electronic cookers in 20 households in East Kayonza to reduce reliance on firewood and charcoal stoves, which harm health and the environment.
Over seven months, the project monitored energy use, air quality, and cooking habits using over 100 sensors. Results showed a reduction in firewood consumption from 3.4kg to 0.86kg per day and a 70% improvement in kitchen air quality contributing to healthier living environments and saving time.
DTA Alumni Award, sponsored by the Doctoral Training Alliance
Dr Mahmoud Eltaweel, Lecturer, University of Hertfordshire
Mahmoud has demonstrated a strong commitment to impactful research and collaboration during his doctoral journey, producing eight peer-reviewed publications featured in Journal of Energy Storage, Energies, Energy Reports, and ASME Turbo Expo proceedings. His research on flywheel energy storage systems advances low-carbon transport technologies by minimising windage losses and boosting performance.
His achievements include the SACTA Award at ASME Turbo Expo 2024 and second place in the 2024 Postgraduate Research Student Conference’s Vision and Voice competition, effectively communicating the relevance of his work to sustainable energy storage.
Dr. George Milev, Knowledge Transfer Partnership Associate (KTP), Nottingham Trent University
Dr Milev’s PhD at NTU focused on heat pump technology and its impact on the UK electricity grid, crucial for Net Zero 2050. He identified how improved house insulation reduces demand peaks from heat pump defrost cycles, aiding energy management.
Post-PhD, George partnered with Stormsaver Ltd to develop a combined greywater and rainwater harvesting system. He also contributed to the academic community, earning the “Outstanding PhD Student Who Teaches” award. George’s commitment to innovation and community impact makes him a deserving candidate for this award.
Miss Ifrah Mussa, Senior Lecturer in Aerodynamics, Kingston University
Since starting her DTA-funded PhD in 2017, Ifrah has remained committed to innovation and community. Working full-time as a Senior Lecturer in Aerodynamics at Kingston University, she is on track to submit her PhD on wind turbine icing this September.
Since 2021, she has collaborated with researchers at the AIAA Ice Prediction Workshop (IPW). She embedded IPW case studies into final-year projects, secured funding for student internships, and co-authored a conference paper presented at AIAA Aviation 2024. Ifrah received the Provost’s Award for Learning and Teaching Excellence and secured Women in STEM Hub funding for research on aircraft wings.
Kate Marks, Post Doctoral Research Associate, University of Durham
Kate has been nominated for her significant contributions to the DTA programme, presenting research, career planning, and providing peer support. Her PhD supervisors commend her achievements, noting her contributions to both the DTA programme and the LBU School of Sport, while completing her PhD.
Kate is praised for her professionalism, independence, collegiality, and high standards. She has showcased her work at events, supported peers as PGR Student Rep, and engaged in mentoring schemes. Kate tirelessly assists new PhD students, embodying creativity, intellect, hard work, and compassion, making her an exemplary PhD student.
Lifetime Achievement Award (nominated by Vice-Chancellors)
Professor Andrew Turner, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Curriculum at Coventry University
Professor Andrew Turner has spent many years at Coventry leading educational development and most recently curriculum development. He is amongst the most innovative problem-solving curriculum leaders in the country. He has led several wholesale curriculum redesigns across all educational entities within the Coventry University Group.
He has taken a community of some 3,000 academics through 2 undergraduate and a postgraduate curriculum rebuilds across the last five years
It is quite uncommon in UK HE to experience such consistent change and Andrew drives that. Taking personal charge of the approval processes, Andrew is a brilliant Coventry team lead and team player.
Professor Andrew Westby, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research and Knowledge Exchange at the University of Greenwich
Professor Westby, who is also Chair of UA’s R&I network, is nominated for his leadership and research contributions over his 38-year career. He transformed Greenwich’s research setup, securing millions in funding. As an international food scientist, his work on cassava benefited millions in sub-Saharan Africa. He has 78 publications, cited over 2000 times, and secured over $30 million from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
His ‘Cassava Adding Value for Africa’ project supported over 90,000 farming families. He also helped eliminate river blindness in West Africa, preventing 600,000 cases. His work addresses climate change, food loss, and sustainable agriculture.
Professor Bernadine Idowu, Professor of Biomedical Sciences, University of West London
An award-winning scientist and the first black female recipient of the Roger Cotton Prize, she has advanced recognition of black women in higher education. As one of only 80 black female professors, she founded the BME Early Career Research Network and the Black in Biomedical Science Undergraduate Network.
She secured £66,700 for a Black Students Summer School and co-founded UWL’s School of Medicine and Biosciences. Bernadine has influenced national research policy and co-authored a paper leading to £3.7 million in funding for Black in Biomedical Research projects.
Bev Millinchip, Head of People Growth and Potential at the University of Derby
Bev uses her knowledge, experience and network to set standards and get things done—trusted, influential, and known to everyone.
Over 31 years, she has delivered quality and commitment, evolving from overseeing HR administration to now being a leader in People Experience & Culture.
Bev designed and delivered the impactful three-year leadership program, The Derby Leader and Manager. She champions our values and culture, automating performance processes with over 90% completion rates. Bev’s involvement spans recruitment, compliance, and development. Her legacy is her influence and inspiration, balancing people and organisational focus.
Beverly Wilson, Operations and Programme Office Manager at Kingston University
Bev has shown outstanding dedication, strategic thinking, and initiative at Kingston University since 1988. Her long career has shaped key operational and financial improvements.
This year, she played a crucial role in the planning and design of the ITS budget centralisation initiative. Bev supported colleagues through this transition, ensuring smooth adoption.
Throughout significant structural changes, she has been a pillar of support for ITS leadership, offering pragmatic solutions and guidance. Bev’s impact over 37 years has been exceptional, exemplifying high standards of performance, collaboration, and commitment. She is an exceptionally worthy recipient of this award.
Professor Debra Humphris CBE, Vice-Chancellor, University of Brighton (2015-24)
Professor Humphris’ 45 years of public service started in the NHS as a nurse. She earned her PhD in 1999, and her research shaped NHS learning and workforce planning. After roles at the University of Southampton and Imperial College London, she became Vice-Chancellor of the University of Brighton (UoB) in 2015, transforming its strategy and research reputation.
Named one of the 70 most influential NHS nurses and midwives in 2018, she was elected a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians. In 2023, she was appointed CBE in recognition of her leadership and advocacy for equality.
Dr. Gerry Rice, Dean for Students at UWE Bristol
Gerry’s career spans three universities—Huddersfield, Northumbria, and UWE—where he has delivered exceptional leadership, compassion, and innovation. As UWE’s first Dean for Students since 2017, he led through challenging times, supporting student wellbeing during the mental health crisis, Covid-19 pandemic, and rising concerns around student conduct.
Gerry developed impactful initiatives like student success coaching and academic personal tutoring. His leadership earned UWE a Merit in the University Mental Health Charter. Gerry’s legacy of care and innovation is immeasurable.
Professor Linda Lawton, Professor of Environmental Biology at Robert Gordon University
Professor Linda Lawton’s outstanding work focuses on improving global drinking water by detecting and removing harmful toxins. Over 35 years, Linda has built a global reputation in studying the environmental impact of cyanobacteria toxins. Her research aligns with UN Sustainability Goals 3, 6, and 14.
She developed the most widely used method for detecting microcystins, an analytical technique cited nearly 900 times, and her work consistently receives UKRI funding.
Linda also founded the CyanoSol research group and advises the WHO and the US’ Enviromental Protection Agency. Her leadership has significantly impacted the water industry and aquaculture globally.
Mark Cadwallader, Chief Executive Officer of University of South Wales’ Student Union
Mark is a key figure at the USW, instrumental in its creation and in leading merger activities. He began his journey at the Polytechnic of Wales in 1990, graduating with a First-Class honours degree. Mark returned to the University of Glamorgan in 1999 as the first Executive Officer to the Vice Chancellor.
Now in his 26th year, he has supported four VCs. His achievements include establishing advisory roles, strategic planning, and leading major projects like the USW Dubai campus. Known for his strategic prowess and adaptability, Mark is almost synonymous with the institution, and is now the CEO of USW’s Student Union, driving impactful change with passion and energy.
Professor Mehmet Karamanoglu, Head of Department of Design Engineering and Mathematics, Middlesex University
Professor Karamanoglu has lectured for over 30 years, supporting students in developing essential skills and confidence. He has built industry partnerships with firms like Altium and National Instruments, and created the Connected Curriculum with Siemens and Festo.
Professor Karamanoglu pioneers industry-based competitions, including WorldSkills UK’s Mechatronics and Automation, and chairs the GAMBICA University-Industry Collaboration Council. As lead organiser of the annual STEM festival, he has inspired hundreds of pupils from deprived areas. His efforts have helped many discover a love for science and engineering.
Professor Mike Leonard, Visiting Professor in Construction and Manufacturing at Birmingham City University
Mike joined BCU in 2015 as a Visiting Professor in Construction and Manufacturing. Over 40 years, he has greatly enhanced BCU’s learning and research. He founded the Centre for Future Homes and established strategic partnerships.
Mike facilitated BCU to become the first university to provide a Fire Engineering Degree Apprenticeship and chairs the employer engagement group. He’s developing new qualifications to support Building Safety and addressing systemic failures from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry. His collaboration with the STEAM team has created revenue and opportunities. Mike also serves as a Special Sergeant and Protest Liaison Officer for West Midlands Police.