Newcastle University Awards

To be shortlisted for the Newcastle University Awards:

• you will have nominated yourself, or been nominated by someone else, for a Celebrating Success Award
• you will have won a category at a Celebrating Success Awards level as an individual, part of a group or society. This includes any Newcastle University campus, including our campuses in Malaysia and Singapore. Special arrangements will be made for students outside of Newcastle to celebrate their success locally. Alternatively, you will have been put forward from affiliated University awards.
• your contribution to the University or our wider community should be demonstrated
• your activities must have taken place during the last 12 months
• you must not have received academic credit for any part of this achievement. This includes those relating to work you have done on behalf of a business (excluding The Contribution to the Workplace Awards)
• students involved in the judging panel or organising the awards cannot be nominated for an individual award, but can be part of a wider team that is nominated

The decision of the judging panel is final and no feedback will be given on individual nominees.

Winning students, societies or projects cannot enter the same category of the following year.

In assessing nominations, judges will be looking for evidence of how the nominee has made Newcastle University particularly proud within one of the category areas. This will be through outstanding:

• innovation
• effort
• contribution
• skill development
• enterprise
• impact

For each 'Outstanding Contribution' award, the winning entry will receive £250 and the runner up will receive £50.

All Undergraduate and Postgraduate Taught winners will also receive recognition of the award on their degree transcript.

For any society winners, prizes will go to the winning societies, not to the individual who completed the form.

Adam Lovegrove, CSA Award Winner for: The Monica Doughty Award (Student Media Awards) 

From commentating at Fight Night for NUTV, hosting a radio show, and helping at the Freshers gazebo and with the StuBrew collaboration, to writing 40+ articles for The Courier covering a range of topics, always completing editing on time, and helping with creative careers and elections special edition spreads. There quite literally isn't a part of Student Media that Adam hasn't helped with. His impact spreads across all sections of our community and is felt by everyone, Adam’s peers have said Student Media would not be what it is without him.  

British Sign Language Society, CSA Award Winner for: Event of the Year (Societies Awards) 

To mark National Sign Language Week during Ramadan, the British Sign Language Society hosted a “Deaf in Islam” event featuring Deaf Muslim UK speakers Khalid Ashraf and Irfan Yusuf. Following an open Iftar at the mosque, students gathered for a lecture about how Deaf and Muslim identities interact and intersect. The event provided a profoundly moving experience, particularly for one student, who for the first time, felt fully seen in both his faith and his Deafness at the same time.   

British Sign Language Society and Pole & Aerial Club, CSA Award Winner for: Collaboration of the Year (Societies Awards) 

The British Sign Language Society and Pole & Aerial Club collaborated on “Flex Like Nobody’s Watching”, a flexibility and contortion workshop led by blind circus artist Rachael Storey, aka Blind Fury. The event aimed to create an inclusive space and bring together students of all backgrounds and abilities, including many with disabilities as well as individuals with no prior experience, and invite them to focus on self-acceptance and celebrating sensory differences. Due to overwhelmingly positive feedback, they are already planning future events together.   

Erin Reid, CSA Award Winner for: Outstanding Contribution to NSR (Student Media Awards) 

Erin is described as a friendly face when you need one, she is a relatable chat when things get stressful but most importantly, she is passionate and excited when it comes to student radio. Erin led the team which was shortlisted as a station for 5 amplify awards and two personal awards which she was one of, a huge achievement.  She is so infectiously passionate it makes you want to do more and work harder, truly bringing NSR to a place full of excited, hardworking people who want the best for the station and each other.  

Grace Boyle, CSA Award Winner for: Outstanding Contribution to The Courier (Student Media Awards) 

Grace has been part of The Courier since her first year of University and has worked her way up to Head of Current Affairs. Grace has worked through personal challenges but with the comfort, motivation, and joy of The Courier, she has managed to work with various volunteers on various projects to enhance and expand the volunteer experience. She has been a driving force behind the success of the weekly bulletin, relaunched The Couriers’ LinkedIn, created an article tracker, introduced a ‘breaking news’ group chat and so much more!  

Musical Medics Society, CSA Award Winner for: Performance of the Year (Societies Awards) 

Musical Medics Society performed “Legally Blonde” at the Jubilee Theatre in Gosforth. An entirely student-led performance, the show sold out all 3 nights and raised over £3,000 for Rape Crisis Tyneside and the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, with representatives from both charities attending the show.  It had 3 sold-out nights that were very positively reviewed. The show was fun, light, and fresh and had the audience laughing each night with an energetic cast, outstanding production, and high-quality tech. 

Etienne Maughan, CSA Award Winner for: Athlete of the Year (Athletic Union Awards) 

The 2024 season started well for Etienne with personal best performances during the indoor season which saw her make the final of the British Senior championship for the first time. She also won the silver medal at a competitive Southern Senior championship but missed out on a podium place at the BUCS indoor championship. This disappointment fueled her resolve, and she rectified this by winning the BUCS outdoor championship in May. She ended the season ranked in the top 10 in the country.  

Korfball Club, CSA Award Winner for: Most Improved Club of the Year (Athletic Union Awards) 

This year marks the most successful in Newcastle Korfball Club’s history, demonstrating exceptional growth, ambition, and sporting excellence. From once struggling to field a team, the club has expanded to over 60 members, three BUCS teams, and an undefeated position in the local NEKA league. The 1st team achieved its highest-ever BUCS Nationals seeding, securing 1st place at Prelims and 3rd at Regionals, while the 2nd team made history by qualifying for BUCS Shield for the first time. This remarkable transformation, underpinned by dedication, inclusivity, and competitive success, makes Newcastle Korfball Club a distinguished candidate for the Contribution to Sport award.  

Ladies Hockey Club, CSA Award Winner for: Community Impact Award (Athletic Union Awards) 

Newcastle University Ladies Hockey Club has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to both sport and community impact. Members volunteer weekly with N.E.S.T, coaching refugees, and have raised over £1,000 for Breast Cancer Now through their annual social. The club actively supports Newcastle Carers, raising funds through events such as bake sales and the ‘Luni Dunk.’ Partnering with NCL Marrow, they help register 40 new stem cell donors each year. Most recently, they launched a charity tournament supporting the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation. Their dedication to fundraising, awareness, and inclusivity exemplifies their profound contribution to both sport and the wider community.  

Asian Medical Students’ Association (AMSA), CSA Award Winner for: Society Contribution to the Community (NUMed Awards) 

AMSA NUMed has showcased exceptional leadership and commitment throughout the year by organising over 20 events, the highest among all societies at NUMed. Their dedication to engaging and enriching the student experience is evident in our consistent efforts to host at least 2-3 events each month, embodying our motto of "Building Bridges, Sharing Dreams" and their aims of knowledge, action, and friendship. A significant highlight was successfully hosting the Medics Intervarsity Games (MIVG) 2024, attracting 1,912 participants from 26 universities across the country. 

BrushUp, CSA Award Winner for: Community Outreach Award (Community Impact Awards) 

Over the past year, BrushUp has gone above and beyond by not only visiting numerous primary schools but also forming impactful partnerships, such as their collaboration with Wallsend Children’s Community Centre. Through this initiative, they have distributed over 300 free oral hygiene packs, including toothbrushes, toothpaste, and essential oral care information to children in deprived areas who are often in urgent need of dental care.  

Isaac Stamper, CSA Award Winner for: Student Leadership Award (Community Impact Awards) 

Through Isaac’s role as Secretary of the Newcastle University Theatre Society (NUTS), he loves helping others and making them feel welcome in a positive atmosphere. In a society of nearly 100 students, there is not a student he wouldn't help, nor a job he wouldn’t undertake for the betterment of the society he loves. He gladly and happily volunteers his time to read countless scripts per semester to make sure student writers at Newcastle feel seen and valued. This is beyond his role description, showing he is willing to go above and beyond and his commitment to helping others is greatly appreciated by all within the society.  

Movember, CSA Award Winner for: Fundraiser of the Year (Community Impact Awards) 

This year’s Movember team broke the Newcastle University record for Movember funds raised, raising over £40,000, making them one of the top UK universities for Movember fundraising. Funds raised are all going to programs and fundraising for research on prostate cancer, support systems for young men at risk, and raising more awareness for a great cause.  

Newcastle Nightline, CSA Award Winner for: Wellbeing Advocate Award (Community Impact Awards) 

Nightline volunteers have worked tirelessly behind the scenes, providing a non-judgemental listening ear to students through their phoneline and messaging service. As they remain anonymous, their efforts often go unseen, yet their impact is immense. As of March 1st, volunteers have collectively contributed over 2,000 hours of service. Their dedication keeps the service consistently available, making a real difference in students’ lives by offering a safe, supportive space whenever it’s needed.  

Running Club Society, CSA Award Winner for: Specialty Society of the Year (Societies Awards) 

Newcastle University Running Club Society is an incredibly welcoming and inclusive society that supports runners of all levels. From a successful Couch to 5K programme to members achieving personal bests at all distances, NURC offers something for everyone. With multiple weekly runs, a strong social scene, and collaborative charity events, the club fosters a supportive, friendly community. Some highlights include an upcoming Peak District trip, joint socials with other societies, and consistent encouragement from the dedicated committee.  

Widening Access to Medicine Society, CSA Award Winner for: Volunteering Innovation Award (Community Impact Awards) 

WAMS has been recognised for its exceptional contributions to both outreach and the support of current MBBS students. This year, the society rebranded the initiative from Outreach Medics to WAMS, with a stronger focus on supporting all members of the widening participation community. Recognising that much of the support often dwindles once students enter university, the society has shifted its focus to ensure that current students also receive continuous support.   

Ella Spray, CSA Award Winner for: Sustainability Superhero Award (Community Impact Awards) 

Ella has coordinated the Plant-Based Universities campaign here at Newcastle University and she's done an incredible job recruiting students, campaigning, and running socials. Without even having an official role at NUSU, she passed a motion to ensure that all non-ticketed NUSU events serve 100% plant-based food, and they have spoken at and helped plan the recent 'Hope not Heat' event, a cross-society environmentalist event to spread positivity around what we can do to solve climate change.   

Disability, Mental Health and Neurodiversity Society, CSA Award Winner for: Representative Society of the Year (Societies Awards) 

The Disability, Mental Health and Neurodiversity Society have gone above and beyond in representing and uplifting marginalised voices on campus. Run by disabled students for disabled students, the society has created a welcoming and accessible space through the running of low-effort yet enjoyable socials such as coffee mornings and craft events. They’ve expanded representation by adding a Mental Health Rep, Physical Disability Rep, and Neurodiversity Rep to their constitution. Their impactful campaign to destigmatise OCD, Bipolar, and Schizophrenia reached students and staff across campus and encouraged students to find a community within the society, while fundraising for charity.   

Eleni Papatheofanous, CSA Award Winner for: Student Chair of the Year (Student Rep Awards) 

A model student, and co-chair of the Psychology SSC for years, Eleni has fostered a brilliant student-staff committee and community of partnership in Psychology through her incredible organisation, work ethic, and motivation.  She has focused on improving communication within the members which has been admirable and extremely effective. She took the lead in some important initiatives including fixing the heating system of the Dame Margaret Barbour building increasing the visibility of SSC in the student body by keeping an A-board with feedback QR codes in the foyer and talking to the staff about including trigger warnings in lectures after relevant student feedback. 

Emily Stevenson and Sophia Long, CSA Award Winner for: PG School Rep of the Year (Student Rep Awards) 

Emily and Sophia, as co-School Reps for PGRs in Natural and Environmental Sciences, have championed student voice at school and faculty levels. They revitalised the SSC for broad representation, tackled major issues like financial constraints and policy changes, and fostered community - ensuring all PGRs feel heard, supported, and connected. 

Geography UG SSC, CSA Award Winner for: SSC of the Year (Student Rep Awards) 

This SSC has exceeded expectations, consistently going above and beyond what could be expected of them in their role by championing inclusivity and student representation. Olivia and Bronwen, as co-Chairs, led discussions and encouraged engagement, with Olivia also organising a period product drive. Cara has advocated for safety and inclusivity, while Kit unified diverse groups and maintained clear communication across the department. 

Hafsa Naiz, CSA Award Winner for: Changemaker Award (Community Impact Awards) 

Hafsa is a passionate advocate who consistently speaks out against injustice on campus, challenging harmful institutional ties and standing in unwavering solidarity with staff during industrial action. She’s been a key voice in campaigns around Palestine solidarity, ethical careers, and student-staff solidarity - never hesitating to hold power to account, even when it's uncomfortable or unpopular. As an unapologetically Muslim, South Asian woman, Hafsa faces increased scrutiny due to Islamophobia and xenophobia, but she refuses to conform in order to be "palatable." Instead, she uses her voice with intention - to spark difficult conversations, disrupt performative allyship, and create space for real change. 

Kieron Johnson, CSA Award Winner for: UG School Rep of the Year (Student Rep Awards) 

As SELLL School Rep, Kieron has championed student voice through a challenging year, driving lasting change. From resolving ReCap access issues to initiating an institutional policy review, improving teaching spaces, and enhancing student wellbeing, he has worked across departments to advocate for equity and engagement - laying foundations for future reps and students alike.  

Lou Sheppard and Rosie van Kesteren, CSA Award Winner for: PG Course Rep of the Year (Student Rep Awards) 

Lou and Rosie, MSc Language Pathology Stage 1 reps, have gone above and beyond. They’ve built community through events and social traditions, created a live feedback system to amplify student voices, and supported peers academically by sharing helpful resources and checking in. Their genuine care makes a real impact.  

Lucy Humphreys, CSA Award Winner for: UG Course Rep of the Year (Student Rep Awards) 

As the student rep for the NCL3000 module, Lucy supported placement year students based worldwide across diverse degrees. She gathered feedback via an online form, shared it with staff, and helped implement meaningful changes like peer connections and a new support package ensuring students felt heard, supported, and part of the university community. 

Rania Ezellya Binti Shamshul Baharain, CSA Award Winner for: Students for Students Award (NUMed Awards) 

Rania has shown her passion both within the NUMed community and outside the NUMed community. Within NUMed, she has executed various events under AMSA, MIVG focusing on sports, AMSEP an exchange program, and Oral Health Camp with KKM for community service. She also cares about student welfare by being the Student Rep for year 3 and being the Head of Student Welfare in the Student Association. She is also active in attending open days as a Student Ambassador, was a Librarian Aide, and is involved in research as the Secretary of NUMed Research Society. Outside NUMed, she played a key role in public health advocacy as a Liaison Officer and current initiative deputy director for Malaysian Medics International Public Health. 

Sohaila Marmoush, CSA Award Winner for: Breaking Barriers Award (Community Impact Awards) 

Sohaila has consistently taken the initiative this year to create inclusive and impactful spaces for Muslim students on campus. Through leading the ISoc Radio Show, she helped bring important conversations to the forefront and gave a platform to voices that are often underrepresented. She’s also played a key role in projects like the Ramadan stall and the Big Sis programme, both of which have helped build a stronger sense of community and support among students. Her involvement in organising alumni talks has also helped bridge the gap between current students and graduates, giving valuable insight and guidance. Her work speaks for itself and has genuinely made a difference.  

Ugochi Ihedilionye, CSA Award Winner for: Student Secretary of the Year (Student Rep Awards) 

Ugochi has excelled in her role, demonstrating exceptional dedication, organisation, and leadership. Her commitment to ensuring the prompt and effective circulation of all relevant information has been unparalleled. Her meticulous attention to detail and proactive approach have guaranteed that every member of the committee is well-informed and prepared for each meeting. 

Akash Dahiya, CSA Award Winner for: Intern of the Year (Contribution to the Workplace Awards) 

Akash completed his internship with Tyneside and Northumberland Mind, developing data pathways, a key area of focus for the charity. His approach fundamentally reshaped how they utilise data, enhancing financial tracking, improving the management of volunteering hours, ensuring GDPR compliance, and enabling more targeted and effective fundraising campaigns.   Far exceeding this, Akash’s work has created the foundation for a framework that can be replicated across different departments, saving time, and costs, and driving greater impact which is undoubtedly invaluable in their work. Akash hasn’t just solved a troublesome data challenge but has provided a pathway for sustainable growth for the charity and enhanced donor relationships.   

Laura Ritson, CSA Award Winner for: Apprentice of the Year - internal (Contribution to the Workplace Awards) 

Laura stands out as a truly exceptional apprentice, demonstrating not only commitment and passion for the apprenticeship and her work but also dedication and an ability to put learning into practice that has benefited our team, the wider university, and colleagues at more than 20 universities across England.   Laura’s apprenticeship skills coach commented ‘You have really inspired me with your positivity and your focus to make the most of your apprenticeship and to be able to apply this successfully’. 

Rod Maclennan, CSA Award Winner for: Apprentice of the Year - external (Contribution to the Workplace Awards) 

Rod has demonstrated exceptional talent, professionalism, and growth, making a lasting impact on his organisation. His innovative data solutions have delivered valuable insights, driving smarter strategic decisions and measurable performance improvements. Beyond his technical expertise, Rod’s outstanding communication skills and commitment to knowledge-sharing have fostered a culture of data literacy, strengthening team cohesion. His remarkable journey of personal and professional growth has enhanced his confidence, problem-solving abilities, and resilience. Rod truly embodies the qualities of an exceptional apprentice: technically skilled, innovative, and highly supportive, making him a deserving recipient of this award.  

Samuel Carr, CSA Award Winner for: Placement Student of the Year – large business (Contribution to the Workplace Awards) 

One of Sam’s most notable accomplishments was identifying £5.39 million in supplier overcharges. By meticulously reviewing supplier invoices and contracts, he was able to uncover discrepancies and unfavourable clauses which had previously gone unnoticed and unaffected for 16 years. Sam’s impact led to the company saving close to £1 million enabling funds to be allocated more efficiently on projects which seek to drive the company forward. We are consistently blown away by his innovative contributions, one of which was the ideation and development of a tool to prevent supplier overcharges in the future. His analysis will be used directly in CEO-level negotiations which truly shows the impact Sam has had. 

Sophia Long, CSA Award Winner for: Newcastle University Worker of the Year (Contribution to the Workplace Awards) 

Sophia has demonstrated exceptional leadership, dedication, and project management skills while serving as the Project Manager on the Agritech 5GIR project. Sophia has taken a proactive approach to stakeholder engagement and risk management, leading various dissemination events that have connected industry leaders, government officials, and research communities. She has represented Newcastle University with professionalism and integrity, presenting the project at national and regional events, engaging diverse audiences, and facilitating discussions with government departments such as DEFRA. Her ability to communicate complex technical and scientific concepts clearly and persuasively has significantly contributed to the project's visibility and impact.    

Tasha Fell, CSA Award Winner for: Placement Student of the Year – small to medium-sized business (Contribution to the Workplace Awards) 

It is rare to see a placement student have such a transformational impact. Tasha has far exceeded expectations, taking on responsibilities with initiative, creativity, and strategic thinking at a level well beyond what would typically be expected.  The panel was impressed by her most significant achievements, including leading a complete overhaul of the organisation’s blog and SEO strategy and leading Black Friday and Christmas email marketing campaigns, single-handedly generating £8,000 in sales. She has fundamentally improved their content strategy, strengthened their marketing efforts, and delivered real business value. Tasha has been an absolute asset to their team, and we truly believe she is deserving of this award.  

Cold Water Swimming Society, CSA Award Winner for: Society of the Year (Societies Awards) 

A relatively young society, the Cold Water Swimming Society offers a unique combination of physical challenge, mental resilience, and community spirit. From regular swims at Tynemouth Beach to sunrise dips and a wide range of socials such as bonfires, karaoke, and trips to the Lake District, the society provides a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for all members. It has rapidly grown into a close-knit group where everyone feels supported and valued; a perfect demonstration of what we want to see in a society.   

Marrow Society, CSA Award Winner for: Change Maker of the Year (Societies Awards) 

Newcastle Marrow Society is truly doing groundbreaking work, making a real, life-saving impact. Since September, they’ve recruited 825 potential stem cell donors, raised over £2,500 for the Anthony Nolan charity, and supported urgent patient appeals. They have partnered with other clubs and societies to run their collaborative “Swabathons”, as well as awareness campaigns, especially highlighting the need for ethnic minority donors.   

Swing Dance Society, CSA Award Winner for: Inclusive Society of the Year (Societies Awards) 

Swing Dance Society has gone above and beyond to create an inclusive, respectful, and welcoming environment for all its members. From ensuring accessible venues and gender-neutral facilities to free period products, they have considered every detail. They champion diversity by celebrating swing dancing’s African-American roots and challenging gender roles in partnered dancing. Sessions are kept affordable and beginner-friendly, with a strong focus on safety and consent.  

Jaeden Birchall, CSA Award Winner for: Individual Outstanding Contribution (Societies Awards) 

Jaeden is an exceptional leader whose dedication has had a transformative impact on both the Disability Mental Health and Neurodiversity Society and the LGBTQ+ Society. Organising over 28 events, he ensures every member feels welcome and supported. He spearheaded impactful campaigns on mental health and LGBTQ+ issues, and played a key role in events like the Be:Trans Transgender Remembrance Day Vigil. Jaeden’s work has extended to creating accessible event guidelines and supporting trans and non-binary students, making him an inspiring changemaker for both communities.  

Law Society, CSA Award Winner for: Academic Society of the Year (Societies Awards) 

Newcastle University Law Society has had an exceptional year. The society secured over £10,000 in nominations – triple the previous year and highest ever recorded including support from four of the UK’s prestigious Magic Circle firms. The society hosted weekly career events and launched a dedicated employability newsletter. Welfare was a key focus for the society, running a successful “Welfare Month” and introducing seven new committee roles to improve inclusivity and representation.    

Myka Lockhart, CSA Award Winner for: Students for Students Award (Community Impact Awards) 

During her time at university, Myka has been involved in several initiatives and has been a great support and inspiration to the students she has volunteered with. Her commitment to equality has made the Combined Honours Society one of the most inclusive and popular on campus and she is a valued peer mentor within her school. She has helped tutor children in local schools, delivered fun micro-volunteering sessions to students on campus, and successfully led the SciFair 25 project helping to inspire young people to want to come to university and go on to STEM-focused careers.  

NUMed Islamic Society, CSA Award Winner for: Society of the Year I The Society’s Choice Award (NUMed Awards) 

The Islamic Society has played a pivotal role in fostering a sense of belonging and integration among students at NUMed Malaysia. Beyond organising events that strengthen community ties, it provides a vital space for students to celebrate their faith in a university where Islam is the majority religion. The society is deeply committed to cultural exchange, warmly welcoming students from all backgrounds and creating a true home away from home.