Three students have won this year’s University of Cumbria Spirit of Cumbria Award.
The Spirit of Cumbria Award celebrates graduands of the University of Cumbria who exemplify its values of being progressive, personal and engaged and are exceptional role models in and outside the university.
Those nominated are recognised for going beyond expectations by, for example, supporting peers, leading transformative projects, embodying university values through community engagement, boosting local economies, promoting inclusivity, championing mental health and advancing sustainability.
Nominations are invited from staff across the university before winners are chosen and presented, during graduations, with a certificate and voucher by the university’s Vice Chancellor.
For the first time since the award began, the university has announced three winners of this special award.
They received their awards during Tuesday’s graduation ceremonies.
Tegan Carr, BSc (Hons) biomedical science
A passionate advocate for biomedical science and a consistent student voice, Tegan has been recognised for her outstanding contributions to the university community.
As a dedicated course representative, she has worked tirelessly to foster an inclusive and supportive environment where every student feels heard and valued.
Tegan embodies the university’s core values through her proactive involvement in work experience opportunities and volunteering, always striving to make a meaningful impact.
Emily Cotton, project management degree apprentice
Project management degree apprentice Emily has been recognised for her exceptional dedication to supporting fellow students and making a meaningful impact both within and beyond the university community.
Emily is a key figure in the internal project manager mentorship scheme where she has gone above and beyond to guide, encourage and empower fellow learners to thrive with her dedication ensuring those around her feel supported in their studies and confident in their development.
Her commitment to student success extends further, taking time to support other students by helping lower-year students with interview skills ahead of their endpoint assessment.
Beyond the classroom Emily dedicates time to charitable work including supporting Children in Need.
Sharon Harper, BSc (Hons) diagnostic radiography degree apprentice
Sharon has been recognised for her extraordinary perseverance, compassion and commitment throughout her academic journey.
Sharon remained focused on her goal of becoming a radiographer – demonstrating unwavering determination and strength.
Her journey is a testament to resilience and the power of staying committed in the face of adversity. Throughout the programme, she has been a supportive peer, an engaged learner, and a proactive contributor to her cohort.
Sharon’s clinical feedback has been consistently outstanding, highlighting her as a kind, caring and approachable individual – qualities that will undoubtedly shine through in her patient care. Her dedication to both her studies and her future profession exemplifies the values of integrity, transformation, and service.
Sharon’s story is not only one of personal triumph but also of the positive impact she will continue to make in her workplace and the wider healthcare community.
Vice Chancellor, Professor Julie Mennell DL, said: “Tegan, Emily and Sharon are all very worthy winners of this year’s Spirit of Cumbria award and it only felt right that, as a result of the impact they have made on their peers, university and wider community, they each received their very special award on the day of their graduation.
“Our values are rooted in being progressive, personal and engaged and through their work, both within and outwith the classroom, each of these winners have pushed their own and others boundaries in meeting these values. A very hearty congratulations to each of them”.
