In addition to last year’s three categories, this year sees the inclusion of a new fourth category:

Alumni Community Hero Award: Celebrating our alumni who have gone above and beyond to make a positive impact in the local community and who have contributed their time and talents for the enrichment of others, and the betterment of society

Alumni Rising Star Award: Celebrating innovative and successful young alumni who have showcased determination, drive and excellence in the workplace or community, who are paving the way for others to follow, demonstrating strong leadership and teamwork skills

Alumni Outstanding Contribution Award: Recognising the incredible voluntary contribution that alumni make to the life and community of the University, through enriching the experience, knowledge and employability of students, or facilitating opportunities for business development and business growth

Alumni Sustainability Champion Award: This award recognises alumni who are committed to shaping sustainable futures, working to continually reduce their environmental impact, operating ethically and empowering others to be advocates for, or making a tangible impact through, sustainable practices.

Nominations are open until 11 March and anyone can nominate an alumnus – staff, students, other alumni, and general public.

Stephen, last year’s Community Hero winner, Steven James, is co-founder of Invicta National Academy and winner of the Community Hero Award 2023, and was recognised for his leadership and initiative to provide free, high-quality education for young people. He said: ‘Not only does it measure how far I have come from the young boy receiving free school meals in the 1980s, but it also serves as recognition for the efforts and commitment of the entire team at Invicta National Academy.  My time studying was instrumental in my career and in shaping the mission of Invicta. Not just the values but also the practical aspects of the teaching tradecraft.”

Dr. Nirja Joshi was one of three Rising Star of the Year winners last year, chosen for co-founding an organisation improving workplace wellbeing for NHS staff. She said “To be considered a Rising Star has made me feel so proud of what I have achieved so far. Given that a lot of what I have done has been during the pandemic, I haven’t had time to stop and reflect about how much change we have been trying to make with The WorkWell Doctors. I have been doing my work with dance for health for a few years now, and it is amazing to remember how significant the impact of this is to people.”

Once nominated, eligible nominees will be shortlisted by representatives from the Graduate Futures Department, then considered against the published criteria by a panel of judges made up of senior members of staff from the University. All nominees are invited to the Alumni Gala Dinner on 15 June to celebrate their success and reveal the winners.

Visit the Alumni Hub to nominate and find further details on the award categories and criteria, as well as specific terms and conditions.