2026 Alumni Volunteer Award Winners Announced

Recognising exceptional graduates whose contributions strengthen Teesside University and inspire the next generation.

Alumni volunteering continues to shape Teesside’s future in powerful and inspiring ways. Whether they are motivating current students, strengthening our global networks, or contributing their expertise to governance, research and teaching, our volunteers make a meaningful difference every day. Their dedication helps ensure Teesside remains responsive to the evolving challenges of today’s economy, society and culture.

This year’s Alumni Volunteer Award winners exemplify that impact at its very best. Each honouree has gone above and beyond in their commitment to the University, demonstrating leadership, creativity and a deep sense of pride in the Teesside community. Their achievements highlight the extraordinary influence our graduates have on campus, across the region and around the world.

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

The winner for 2026 is… Jamie Sample Jamie has been an active and dedicated volunteer at MIMA for several years, contributing weekly to learning programmes, community events, and The Club elders’ group. He openly shares his educational journey, including personal challenges, offering encouragement to students and advocating for neurodivergent creatives. Jamie is widely recognised for bringing communities together through his involvement in local music, arts, and subculture groups, as well as public performances such as North East Opera. As a visible ambassador for TU and MIMA, he supports exhibitions, festivals, and interviews. His sustained commitment and multiple volunteer awards highlight the impact of his creativity, resilience, and community leadership. 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.

The winner for 2026 is… Paula McMahon Paula has dedicated more than 30 years to supporting Teesside University and the civil engineering community, beginning as an ICE Student Liaison Officer in 1992 and continuing her service ever since. She has contributed to the Industrial Liaison Group, mentoring, guest speaking, curriculum development, STEM outreach, placements, grant activity, and representing the University at regional and national levels. Widely recognised for her industry leadership and multiple professional awards, Paula is a respected ambassador for excellence. Her advocacy bridges academia and industry, creating opportunities for emerging engineers and inspiring pride across the regional engineering community.

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.

The winner for 2026 is… Elizabeth Marshall Elizabeth has made a significant contribution to Teesside University Law over the past year through guest speaking, mentoring, and her active support of the TU Law Student, Graduate & Employer Network. She provides career talks, informal coaching, and opportunities that strengthen student–alumni connections, particularly benefiting those exploring non traditional or non linear career paths. By openly sharing her lived experience, including navigating disability, she empowers students to feel represented and confident in their own journeys. A committed advocate for widening participation and public sector careers, Elizabeth enhances TU’s legal education ecosystem and expands students’ access to professional networks through her ongoing mentoring and LinkedIn engagement.

Congratulations to all our winners, we are extremely proud that you are part of our alumni community.

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