Alumni Volunteer Awards

Winners chosen for Exeter Alumni Volunteer Awards

In recognition of the contribution that our amazing alumni volunteers make to our institution, we recently launched our very first Alumni Volunteer Awards.

We received more than 60 nominations, all highlighting alumni volunteers who have gone above and beyond in their support of Exeter. It was tough for the judging panel (made up of student, staff and alumni representatives) to narrow down such a deserving selection. However, we are delighted to announce our winners:

Debbie Hill Award for the Exceptional Support of Students

This award celebrates individuals who go above and beyond in their support of students, inspiring them with their passion and commitment.

Our winner:

Duncan Goldsworthy, who graduated in Chemistry in 1977, in recognition of his long-standing and committed support of a wide range of student employability activities.

Duncan commented on winning: "I am absolutely delighted to have received the Debbie Hill award and so pleased to think that my efforts have been appreciated. Sometimes it is difficult to know whether you are doing the right thing and I am very conscious about the 35-40-something year age gap between myself and my mentees. However, I am so glad that I am able to continue to be of use to the students at Exeter University and I will continue to provide as much support as I possibly can."

Many congratulations to our other shortlisted nominees in this category: Lizzie Daly (MSci Animal Behaviour, 2016), Daniel Orton (Psychology, 2012), David Morgan (Msc Climate Change and Risk Management, 2009), Amanda Quartly (One Planet MBA, 2012)and Niklas Rahmel (Information Technology Management for Business, 2015).

Nicholas Bull Award for the Exceptional Support of the Alumni Community.

This award celebrates individuals who go above and beyond in their support of their fellow alumni, making a significant contribution to our flourishing community, either regionally or internationally.

Our winner:

Wenjie Li, who completed an MSc in Accounting and Finance in 2012, for his pioneering development of the Exeter China Alumni Association.

Wenjie commented on winning: "It is my privilege and honor to receive the Nicholas Bull Award. It’s a recognition from Exeter University for the work of Exeter China Alumni Association over the past few years. I appreciate the encouragement and guidance from University of Exeter and all you have done to supporting alumni development in China."

"Many people ask me why I founded the Exeter China Alumni Association (ECAA) from scratch and constantly dedicate countless time and effort to developing it. It’s because I understand that without the active support of alumni, Exeter would not be one of the world leading universities. It’s an honor and great responsibility for me to be able to play a role in helping Exeter to succeed."

Many congratulations to our other shortlisted nominees in this category: Archit Garg (MSc. International Management, 2012), Emma Payne (Archaeology, 2011), Jonathan Broad (LLB Law 2008) and Richard Umbers (Geography and Geology, 1988).

The awards are named in honor of two long-standing alumni volunteers, formally recognising the commitment and support that they have given us over many years.

Debbie Hill has given invaluable help and guidance to the development of the alumni volunteering programme, ensuring volunteers are engaged in meaningful, satisfying activities and are recognised for their incredible work.

Nicholas Bull has been giving his time and expertise to Exeter for almost two decades. Over the years he has taken on a wide variety of roles and activities to support our staff, students and his fellow alumni and has worked tirelessly to ensure that the alumni voice is represented across the University.

Date: 11 May 2018