Who inspires you? Alumni Volunteer Award nominations now open

From mentoring and guest speaking to advocacy and governance, help us shine a spotlight on alumni making a difference

Teesside University is proud to launch this year's Alumni Volunteer Awards, celebrating the outstanding contributions of graduates who generously give their time, expertise and passion to support the University and its community. The awards recognise alumni volunteers whose dedication continues to make a lasting impact on students, staff and fellow graduates across Teesside's global network.

The awards span three categories:

• Rising Star Alumni Volunteer Award

• Long-Service Volunteer Award

• Alumni Volunteer of the Year Award

These honours recognise exceptional alumni who inspire students, contribute to University governance, champion Teesside as an institution of choice, and support teaching, research and employability. Through their leadership, creativity and commitment, alumni volunteers continue to strengthen and enrich the University community.

Head of Engagement and Enterprise, Sam Forbes, said: "Every year, our alumni volunteers contribute their time, knowledge and experience to support students and strengthen the University's connections with industry and communities around the world. The impact of their support is invaluable, and these awards provide a meaningful way to thank and celebrate them."

The 2026 Alumni Volunteer Awards celebrated an exceptional group of graduates whose contributions have made a significant difference across the University and beyond. Elizabeth Marshall, a Law graduate and the 2026 Alumni Volunteer of the Year, was recognised for her outstanding commitment to mentoring, guest speaking and supporting students through Teesside University's graduate and employer networks. By sharing her experiences and championing widening participation, Elizabeth has helped students build confidence and expand their professional networks. Other 2026 winners included Jamie Sample, recipient of the Rising Star Alumni Volunteer Award, who has made a remarkable impact through his volunteering with MIMA and community programmes, and Paula McMahon, who received the Long-Service Volunteer Award in recognition of more than 30 years of dedicated support to Teesside University and the civil engineering profession.

Nominations are open to all, whether you're a member of staff, a current student, a fellow graduate, an employer, or even the graduate themselves. If you know someone who deserves recognition, submitting a nomination is quick and easy.

The deadline for nominations is Friday 22 January 2027.

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