Academic award celebrates memory of Teesside University lecturer

Law graduate Rajveer Kaur is the first recipient of the Emma Teare Award for Family Law.

The award has been set up in in memory of Emma Teare, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Law, Policing, Investigation and Social Sciences and a valued member of the University community for 30 years, who sadly passed away earlier this year.

Rajveer, who graduated from the LLB (Hons) Law, said: “I am honoured to accept The Emma Teare Award for Family Law and grateful to be recognised for my academic performance in this module.”

The Emma Teare Award for Family Law, which comes with a £250 prize, is awarded for best academic performance in the Family Law module.

The £250 award was kindly donated by Teesside University Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Mark Simpson.

Professor Simpson said: “Emma has had a profound impact on the culture of the Law School at Teesside University.

“This prize, which recognises the best academic performance in the Family Law module, fits with Emma's passion and interests and is reflective of an academic who was driven to ensure that all students reached their full potential. It is a privilege to be involved.”

Rajveer, of Middlesbrough, said: “I chose to study law because I have a strong interest in justice, critical thinking and understanding how legal systems shape our society. Law appeals to me because it challenges me intellectually, while also offering the opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives.

“I am particularly drawn to how the law balances individual rights with public interest, and I want to be part of a profession where I can use logic, communication and ethical reasoning to solve complex problems.

“I was keen to study at Teesside because of its practical, career-focused approach to legal education. The Law School’s emphasis on employability, real-world experience through mooting and legal clinics and strong connections to the legal profession make it an ideal place to prepare for a successful career. I was also impressed by the supportive learning environment, modern facilities and the University’s commitment to student success.

“The location and vibrant student community further convinced me that Teesside is the right place for me to grow academically and personally.”

Rajveer added: “I feel both proud and humbled to be the first recipient of such a meaningful award. Although I did not have the privilege of knowing Emma personally, it is clear from the esteem in which she is held that she made a lasting impact on the University and her students. I am sincerely grateful to be associated with her memory through this award.”

Angela King, Head of Department in Law, Policing, Investigation and Social Sciences, said: “Emma was dedicated to supporting her students on their journey with us and beyond. We are incredibly grateful to be able to honour her memory through this award, and Rajveer is a truly deserving recipient.”

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