Graduates whose work is making an impact locally, nationally and internationally have been recognised at the University of Worcester’s first Alumni Awards.
The inaugural awards were held during autumn graduation week, part of the university’s 80th anniversary celebrations.
They recognised outstanding contributions in healthcare, education, business, sport, sustainability, and community leadership.
Jo Yapp, England rugby legend, was named Outstanding Sportsperson alongside GB wheelchair basketballer Sophie Carrigill.
Laura Bounds MBE, CEO of Kent Crisps, received the Innovation in Career award, and Aidan Goundry won the International Impact Award for his work improving medical provision in The Gambia.
Sophie Carrigill, who captained the GB Women’s Wheelchair Basketball team while studying sports psychology at Worcester, said: “I truly feel honoured to have been recognised with this award.
“The University will always be a special place to me.
“My life grew and evolved beyond measure during my time there.
“It is a really proud moment.”
The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Suzette Davenport, former Chief Constable of Gloucestershire Constabulary.
Dr Gemma Taylor, who graduated in 2009 and has become a leading behavioural scientist, received the Social Impact for Healthcare award.
She said: “I feel incredibly proud and privileged to receive this recognition, particularly from a university that played such an important role in shaping both my career and my life.
“It means a great deal to know that Worcester has continued to follow and support my journey long after I graduated, and I’m very grateful to be recognised in this way.”
Hannah Harrison and Oliver Nightingale were highly commended in the same category for launching a free physiotherapy service at Oasis Community Hub Warndon.
Hannah Harrison and Oliver Nightingale were Highly Commended in the Social Impact for Healthcare category (Image: University of Worcester)
Ms Harrison said: “It is a huge honour to have been nominated for this award, and to be highly commended is incredibly humbling.
“Oliver and I have been privileged to take what we learnt in the lecture hall straight out into practice.”
Meg Price, a former officer with Worcester Students’ Union, was highly commended in the Social Impact for Education category for her influence on national education and social policy.
Former Worcester Students’ Union Officer Meg Price was Highly Commended in the Social Impact for Education category (Image: University of Worcester)
“I’m very proud to be highly commended for this award,” she said.
“I’m conscious that Worcester produces incredible graduates every year who are working in schools, hospitals and other settings.
“I’ve achieved some cool things, but I think they deserve the recognition for delivering vital services for people every day.”
A full list of award winners and highly commended alumni is available at www.worcester.ac.uk.
