Celebrating the finalists of the Alumni Volunteer Awards 2026

Celebrating the exceptional alumni volunteers whose time, expertise and impact help shape Teesside’s future.

Teesside University is proud to announce the finalists for this year’s Alumni Volunteer Awards - an annual celebration recognising the graduates who generously give their time, expertise and energy to support the University community.

Alumni volunteering continues to play a vital role in shaping Teesside’s future. From inspiring current students and strengthening our global networks, to contributing to governance, research and teaching, our volunteers make a meaningful difference every day. Their commitment ensures Teesside remains relevant to the challenges facing today’s economy, society and culture.

These awards shine a spotlight on exceptional individuals whose dedication, leadership, creativity and impact enrich the University in countless ways. This year’s finalists represent the very best of Teesside’s graduate community.

Rising Star Alumni Volunteer Award: Recognising a graduate who has recently begun their volunteering journey and is already demonstrating promise, emerging impact and inspiration.

Finalists are:

• Amy Summerton, BEng (Hons) Chemical Engineering, 2025

• Pratyush Rangaswamy Raghunath, MSc Project Management (with Advanced Practice), 2024

• Jamie Sample, BA (Hons) Fine Art, 2024

Long Service Volunteer Award: Celebrating a graduate whose sustained commitment over many years has made an outstanding contribution to Teesside. Their continued support has helped build confidence, open opportunities and advance the University’s mission.

Finalists are:

• Paula McMahon, BEng Civil Engineering, 1996

• Erica Turner, LLB Law, 2006

• Lou Tonner, BA (Hons) Television & Film Production, 2012

Alumni Volunteer of the Year Award: Honouring a graduate who has made an exceptional contribution over the past year. Their activity has gone above and beyond - guiding, advising and inspiring others across the Teesside community.

Finalists are:

• Elizabeth Marshall, LLB Law with Criminology, 2013

• Luke Mills, BA (Hons) Computer Games Art, 2021

• Precious Nwagboso, MSc IT Project Management, 2023

We’d like to take this opportunity to thank all our finalists, as well as everyone who submitted nominations this year. It was an incredibly competitive selection process, reflecting the breadth of impact our alumni are making across schools, industries and communities connected to Teesside.

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