Universities shortlisted for prestigious national award

Both Keele and Staffordshire have been shortlisted for University of the Year in the 2020 Times Higher Education (THE) awards.

The awards recognise outstanding work in universities covering the whole breadth of their activity – both in academia and professional services.

The University of the Year award is given to an institution which demonstrates exceptional performance across its research, teaching, leadership and business performance across its operations, and to be named as a finalist in this category is a significant achievement in itself.

The 2020 awards celebrate the achievements of universities throughout 2018/19, when Keele celebrated its 70th anniversary and enjoyed another outstanding year across all of its activities: from access through to teaching, research, and engagement.

Professor Trevor McMillan, Vice Chancellor of Keele University said:

I’m incredibly proud that Keele has been named as a finalist for the University of the Year award.

This nomination is a fitting recognition of the outstanding work of the staff and students here. The world class research and teaching by our academic staff is having a significant impact in fields like climate change, green energy and sustainability, and inspiring our students to go forward into the world and tackle the biggest challenges facing society, the economy, and the world.

We also have an incredible network of professional service staff, who work tirelessly to provide essential support for staff and students. This nomination is shared by the whole Keele community and is a testament to all of their dedication and hard work.”

In addition to University of the Year, Staffordshire University has been shortlisted in the ‘Outstanding Contribution to the Local Community’ and ‘Outstanding Marketing/Communications Team’ categories at the THE Awards 2020. Matt Lewis, Technical Specialist – Digital Media Production, has also made the shortlist for the ‘Outstanding Technician of the Year’ award.

Professor Liz Barnes CBE DL, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Staffordshire University, said:

The THE Awards are the Oscars of the higher education world and our shortlisting in the University of the Year category – as well as our other shortlisted nominations – is testament to the starring roles played by our students, staff, partners and communities.

Staffordshire University has always been proud of and committed to supporting people of all ages and from all backgrounds to achieve their full potential and transform their life chances – efforts that were central to our nomination for University of the Year.

Being selected as a finalist is recognition of our institution as an ambitious, strategic and forward-thinking organisation, which is committed to becoming the UK’s foremost ‘Digital University’. I am delighted that we have made this year’s shortlist and determined that we will continue to go from strength to strength in the future.”