Exclusive interview with the international best-selling author Page 16 In conversation with Lee Child
Learning to laugh
How Sheffield makes funny people. Page 19
Treating the untreatable
Why neuroscience needs SITraN to grow. Page 22
10 years of AMRC Training Centre
See how new blood is keeping industry alive. Page 26
28
The life-changing impact of the foundation year programme
Mature students reflect on a decade of the Department of Lifelong Learning.
A note from your editor
Progress is a difficult thing to track, let alone quantify. Should it be measured in breakthroughs, or in lives changed? Do we count it in years or in £millions invested? The voice of the individuals or the bigger picture, where we count people as percentages? In a year with so many anniversaries and world firsts to talk about, this edition attempts to cover them all.
You can find out about some of our alumni who are pushing for progress in their own way –including Abdi Aziz Suleiman and Ailis Topley (see page 34). And of course best-selling author Lee Child (see page 16) shares his view on how things have progressed in the 50 years since he graduated. Thanks for reading.
Today’s students interview the original graduates.
We’ll hear about progress on treating neurodegenerative diseases and building SITraN, from Dame Professor Pamela Shaw (see page 22), and catch up on the wide-ranging impact of the Made Together programme in the region (see page 14). We’ll be celebrating ten years of the AMRC Training Centre (see page 26), and ten years of the Department of Lifelong Learning’s Foundation Year programme (see page 28) – hearing directly from the people whose lives have been transformed.
Sarah Hopkins (BA English Language with Linguistics 2003) Alumni Communications Manager
University news
University of Sheffield voted University of the Year
The University has been voted University of the Year, Best Students’ Union and Best Student Life at the Whatuni Student Choice Awards (WUSCAs) 2024.
Made up of around 35,000 university reviews, the Whatuni Student Choice Awards are the only awards based on student views. The awards aim to celebrate the commitment and hard work of higher education providers across the UK in creating the best environment for their students.
Professor Mary Vincent, Vice-President for Education at the University of Sheffield, said: “We are thrilled to be named University of the Year by the Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2024. This recognition is a reflection of the tireless efforts of our entire University community.”
“Winning the Best Students’ Union for the seventh year in a row is also a truly remarkable achievement which recognises the vibrant environment, outstanding support services,
and plethora of opportunities our Students’ Union provides, allowing our students to thrive both academically and personally.
“Both of these accolades, coupled with the award for Best Student Life, underscores our commitment to providing a world-class learning and teaching environment that fosters academic excellence, personal growth, and a vibrant student life.”
Celebrating 100 years since insulin trial
It’s been a century since the Medical Research Council selected the University to take part in the UK’s first clinical trials of insulin.
In 1923, Sheffield industrialist and philanthropist Sir Stuart Goodwin became the first person with Type 1 Diabetes to be treated successfully with insulin. Before the trial, there was no treatment for diabetes.
“When Goodwin was diagnosed, diabetes was a death sentence,” explains Professor Sheila Francis,
from the University of Sheffield’s School of Medicine and Population Health. “The only way to manage the disease was a starvation diet which restricted patients to 400 calories in 24 hours.”
Sir Stuart went on to live to the age of 83. He is reported to have donated £10,000 to the Royal Infirmary after his successful treatment. Today, Sheffield remains at the forefront of innovative diabetes research –evolving new ways to help millions of people live long and full lives.
University renews global connections
In 2023 Sheffield’s International Team embarked on a global journey for the first time since the pandemic. They covered thousands of miles, renewing connections with alumni and fostering strategic partnerships. We take a brief look at their progress with partners across India, China and the United States.
First stop, India
Accompanied by the ViceChancellor, the team ventured to India, visiting institutions like IIT Delhi, IIT Bombay, and ATLAS SkillTech. At a grand reception in New Delhi, British High Commissioner Alex Ellis hosted over 100 alumni at the official residence. Guests included Anish Prajivin, a third-generation Sheffield alumnus, highlighting the enduring legacy of the University both in the country and within families.
Gala events and shared memories
The week-long visit to China included a spectacular gala event in Beijing, organised by
the Beijing Alumni Association and presided over by their president, Yahong Zhu. Sheffield alumnus and founder of KUMO KUMO Cheesecake, Jiang Haowen, inspired attendees with a keynote speech. Then to Shanghai for an intimate gathering hosted by President of the Eastern China Alumni Association, Eric Yu.
Strengthening global alliances
Beyond alumni engagements, the University of Sheffield is forging ahead with strategic partnerships: collaborating with the University of Cape Town, particularly in energy research; in the US, with the University of Washington and of course Penn State University.
Professor Clive Randall, Director of Penn State University’s Material Research Institute, explains: “The strategic partnership between Penn State and Sheffield has resulted in many significant impacts. In the post-covid era, we look forward to jointly extending the success and our collaboration on strategic areas, share resources and expertise, bolster our projects and bilateral hubs portfolio to further maximise the outcomes.”
Learn more about these international partnerships: sheffield.ac.uk/ internationalpartnerships
We are
a
University of Sanctuary
Sheffield has been named a ‘University of Sanctuary’ because of its support for displaced people. Alongside our Sanctuary Scholarships, we are also now part of a national network of universities in the UK committed to helping students and scholars fleeing war, persecution and disasters to continue their studies in a safe and stable environment.
Sir Stuart Godwin February 1923 September 1923
Sheffield best for real-world engagement
According to the latest Knowledge Exchange Framework, Sheffield is in the top 20% of universities for working with businesses, developing IP and commercialising research.
Published in September 2023 by Research England, KEF shows how we work with partners from all sectors on their biggest challenges,
as well as major issues facing society, such as health inequality and sustainability.
It also places Sheffield as one of the country’s leading universities for working at a range of scales, from small local firms to national businesses – for example Innovation District and Off the Shelf Festival (see page 14).
Innovation district
Following the success of our Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC), a groundbreaking new research and development facility will play a key role in the new South Yorkshire Investment Zone. COMPASS – Composites at Speed and Scale (see page 14) – will work with the aerospace industry to develop new manufacturing techniques for lightweight aircraft components. The District is also home to the Gene Therapy Innovation and Manufacturing Centre, dedicated to advancing scientific discoveries into treatments for life-threatening diseases.
Off the Shelf
In October 2023, Sheffield hosted one of the largest literary festivals in the North, bringing some of the very best names in writing, arts and media, as well as rising stars, to Sheffield and South Yorkshire.
Sheffield in the global top 30 for sustainability
Out of more than 1,400 institutions around the world, the University of Sheffield has come 24th for sustainability – that’s 7th in the UK and 12th in Europe.
The QS World University rankings look at the different ways in which universities are taking action to tackle the world’s greatest environmental, social and governance issues. These include areas like environmental research impact and teaching; net-zero targets and emissions reductions; employability outcomes; equality; and health and wellbeing.
They also consider how transparently universities are governed.
Professor Koen Lamberts, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Sheffield, said: “This ranking shows that we are not simply ticking ‘green’ boxes, we are making substantial progress at embedding social and environmental sustainability into the whole university.”
Spinout raises £5 million for MND treatment
University spinout company Crucible Therapeutics has secured £5 million from Northern Gritstone and Argobio Studio to develop novel therapies for MND and frontotemporal dementia.
The funding will pay for essential development and manufacturing work, taking the company up to its first clinical trial – laying the groundwork to treat some of the common forms of MND and FTD.
Crucible’s Director, Professor Guillaume Hautbergue, said:
“What an incredible journey!
New AI research awarded government funding
New research at the University of Sheffield that will build principles for the responsible use of AI across the public, private and third sectors, has been awarded a share of £100 million in government funding.
The funding comes from the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) and will define what responsible AI use looks like across sectors such as education, policing and the creative industries.
Dr Joanna Tidy will lead a team based in Sheffield’s Department of Politics and International Relations investigating the responsible use of AI in the museum and heritage sector. Dr. Denis Newman-Griffis will lead a second team from the Department of Philosophy, working with organisations across all sectors to build shared values and principles for responsible AI.
I feel blessed and honoured to be working with them and moving forward a bench discovery onto the translational path. I am now delighted to continue our preclinical development programme in partnership with Argobio Studio and Northern Gritstone who bring significant levels of expertise and support.”
Historic flight powered by sustainable fuel
On 28th November 2023, the first ever transatlantic flight using 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) took off, with the help of engineers from the University of Sheffield – marking a significant step on the path to decarbonising the aviation industry.
The flight follows more than a year of collaboration between a Virgin Atlantic-led consortium that includes the University of Sheffield, Imperial College London, Boeing, Rolls-Royce,
BP, and others, and has been partly funded by the UK’s Department of Transport.
Researchers from the University of Sheffield worked closely with their peers at Imperial College London to test and assess the fuel for the flight. The team measured particulate matter emitted from a smaller-scale aircraft engine to confirm that sustainable aviation fuel reduces the amount of carbon dioxide emissions by up to 70% compared to traditional jet fuel.
Campus update
From breaking ground on a new £80 million research facility to introducing state-of-the-art equipment and workshops for students across all faculties, it’s been another busy year for our estates teams.
• The design and preparation for the Central Teaching Laboratory – the University’s new super lab – is well under way. We’ve been working with the faculties of Science and Health to understand what they need from the space, which will be built on Upper Hanover Street, next to Information Commons.
• The Dental Technology Unit was completely refurbished for the start of term last September, after being on hold since the pandemic. The high-quality specialist metal dentistry benching has been retained and fully refurbished with surplus benches being shipped via Dentaid to provide much needed equipment in Malawi.
• The gym at Goodwin Sports Centre was renovated in the second half of 2023. There was a great deal of work behind the scenes, but probably most noticeable for gym users is the installation of brand new Technogym equipment, an improved layout and redecoration.
• We’ve transformed the former print room and office space in Central Annexe Building into a workshop and reprographics facility for Architecture and Landscape Architecture. Together with new woodworking equipment, casting room, spray booth and flexible workspace for creating their models, we’re adding a printing and plotting facility so students now have a one-stop shop for printing and making.
• Over in the Geography and Planning building, the team has replaced or refreshed all of the windows, taking out old glass panels and putting in new insulated high-performance glass – giving everyone a lot more natural light and improved ventilation.
• Finally, in between graduation ceremonies, Varsity events and sell-out gigs, we’ve successfully refurbished the Octagon Centre. The final phase, completed last Autumn, was about revamping the Octagon Bar ready for the thousands of students, staff and visitors who’ll be coming through in 2024 and beyond.
For the latest news on all current estates projects, visit sheffield.ac.uk/our-estate
What’s new at the SU
What does liberation mean to you?
In 2021, the SU’s elected Student Officer team grew to 13, with reps for Postgrads, Mature Students, Women Students, LGBT+ Students, BAME Students, and Disabled Students.
This year, the whole team has worked to grow the Liberation Month programme – focusing on issues important to these groups and launching a new online Liberation Hub. Here’s what liberation means to our Officers in their own words:
“Not settling for a status quo that discriminates against people. Liberation means radically opposing injustice and advocating for a system that celebrates our differences and uplifting activism to celebrate everyone.”
Zoe Lancaster Women’s Part Time Officer
“Liberation to me means valuing and respecting others regardless of our differences. Working together to create a collective safe space.”
Yasin Hussain Mature Student Part Time Officer
“Liberation is feeling empowered to be authentically yourself. It is supporting students from a diverse range of backgrounds to feel included, heard, represented and accepted in all aspects of their life.”
Laura Edwards Disabled Students’ Officer
“For me liberation is unlocking limitless possibilities, dismantling systemic barriers and pursuing happiness without fears.”
Ahmad Waris BAME Student Part Time Officer
“As a Black Queer man, liberation is the potential for a continuous cycle of outcry, action and result that strives to attain complete freedom, equality and equity, and empowerment for all.”
Jephthah Ekogiawe LGBTQ+ Part Time Officer
What did the SU mean to you? Let us know by emailing your memories to sualumnimemories@sheffield.ac.uk or fill out our form
Our Manifesto, Our Future
With elections in the UK, EU Parliament, India and the US, to mention a few, 2024 is going to be a busy year for politics. Ahead of the UK’s general election, our SU Officers have been gathering feedback and ideas from the student community to add to the national student manifesto –ensuring our voices are heard.
Community Fridge launched in the Students’ Union
In 2023, Sheffield research showed 42% of our students were cutting back on their food shop. Thanks to a successful application from the SU’s Welfare and Sustainability Officer, a new community fridge has been installed to help students and local people top-up their weekly food shops.
Making noise in the library
In March, there was a musical takeover of the Western Bank Library’s silent space. From an opera duet to a saxophone quartet, over 14 student groups performed to highlight the value of funding the arts in education –and to show the importance of a holistic approach to education.
In case you’re not familiar, here’s a full list of Sheffield’s societies, clubs and events su.sheffield.ac.uk/ events/clubs-and-societies
The newly refurbished Dental Technology Unit Geography and Planning building
Zoe Yasin Laura Ahmed Jephthah
Research in focus
Sheffield’s cross-faculty research centres harness the University’s wealth of interdisciplinary expertise and excellence to solve the world’s most pressing challenges. Here are four examples of how they’re changing the world for the better. Find out more at: sheffield.ac.uk/ research/centres
Building better with a circular economy
f we’re to tackle the climate crisis, decarbonising construction is the place to start. Buildings and infrastructure are responsible for over 40% of the UK’s carbon emissions, produce over 60% of the UK’s waste, and consume approximately 50% of all extracted materials globally.
That’s why our Energy Institute researchers are exploring the extent to which the circular economy could meet the UK building industry’s needs –with the end goal being zero new material extractions, zero emissions and zero waste.
BuildZero, a new £6 million project funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, will develop a detailed vision of more sustainable building practices.
In a circular economy, materials are kept at the highest value possible. So rather than demolishing and constructing new buildings from scratch, retrofitting and repurposing to extend a building’s lifespan would become the norm.
The project will assess the extent to which the vision for a circular economy is achievable at regional and national level, and will provide a platform for demonstrating these solutions at scale.
BuildZero will culminate in a range of demonstrator projects, interactive tools, detailed strategies and ultimately a series of pathways to achieve this vision.
“This funding is an exciting opportunity to explore if, and under what timeframes, a circular economy can be achieved for the UK’s building stock, while meeting essential societal needs,” explains project lead Dr Danielle Densley Tingley. “We will be working in close collaboration with industry partners to support changes in practice and help catalyse the shift to a widespread circular economy in the built environment.”
You can read the full story here www.sheffield.ac.uk/news/studyexplore-if-circular-economy-canmeet-needs-uks-buildings ENERGY INSTITUTE
NEUROSCIENCE INSTITUTE
£2m electrical earpiece trial for stroke patients
Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and long-term disability in the UK – affecting over 120,000 people every year.
Of the UK’s 1.3 million stroke survivors, one third are living with permanent arm weakness which limits their daily activities. Now a new £2 million trial will test whether a device which delivers electrical pulses to the brain through an earpiece can help people regain strength.
Run in partnership with Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, researchers from the Universities of Sheffield, Nottingham and Glasgow will test the Triceps treatment on 243 patients from 15 UK stroke centres over the next two years.
Arshad Majid, Sheffield’s Professor of Cerebrovascular Neurology and chief investigator of the trial said: “Triceps aims to establish whether the treatment could be delivered without the need for surgery. If it could be self-administered at home, far more people would benefit.”
The trial is funded by a partnership between the National Institute for Health and Care Research and the Medical Research Council and the Association of British Neurologists Fellowship (co-funded by the Stroke Association and Berkeley Foundation).
Read more about the trial here sth.nhs.uk/news
HEALTHY LIFESPAN INSTITUTE
Accelerating research in severe mental illness
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a complex and disabling condition that impacts more than one in every 100 people in the UK. People with BPD often experience difficulties in relationships, managing emotions and impulsiveness, including selfharm and suicidal feelings. Around 10% of those diagnosed take their own lives.
Researchers at Sheffield, together with academics and lived experience experts from across England, have received funding as part of a £22.5m investment to develop new approaches to diagnosis, treatment and support for people who experience serious mental illness.
Professor Scott Weich from the Healthy Lifespan Institute, School of Medicine and Population Health and Sheffield Health and Social Care NHS Foundation Trust is leading a new, five year research hub:
“We want to include people who might not necessarily identify with the diagnosis, or who might not have been given a diagnosis or even excluded from mental healthcare settings,” explains Professor Weich. “This will include working with drug and alcohol services, prisons and probation services. The problems associated with Borderline Personality Disorder are extremely common and extend far beyond those with a formal diagnosis.”
This research is one of five Mental Health Platform Hubs established by the Medical Research Council, on behalf of UK Research and Innovation, which is aiming to harness the full power of the UK’s scientific community to tackle large-scale, complex challenges.
Read more about the trial here ukri.org/blog/acceleratingresearch-in-severe-mental-illness
And for more on Borderline Personality Disorder, visit nhs.uk/mental-health
INSTITUTE FOR SUSTAINABLE FOOD
New research programme to transform food systems
Anew centre for sustainable and resilient food systems will bring together world-leading researchers from the University of Sheffield, Queen’s University Belfast and University College Dublin in a bid to transform food systems.
The interdisciplinary team will be working with industry and government on a way to make the way our food is grown, transported and consumed better for the consumer – and to remove the massive environmental impact made by our current system. It will transform existing food systems, impacting everything from production to policy and from health to society through its research and outreach activities.
Each member of the group will have expertise in specific areas which are core to food system transformation – including food safety, production, nutrition, plant and animal science, behavioural change, data science, food system governance, and the political process of food system transformation.
Professor Louise Dye, lead of the integrated UK Research and Innovation programme, and Co-Director of the Institute for
Sustainable Food at the University of Sheffield, explains: “We need to act now to ensure that we develop a robust, resilient and sustainable food system that provides access to healthy, affordable, nutritious food for all.”
You can read the full story about the initiative here sheffield.ac.uk/sustainable-food/ news/new-research-programmetransform-food-systems-ledsheffield-awarded-ps58-million
Made Together: The year of un locking potential
In South Yorkshire, pushing the boundaries is very much a collective endeavour. During 2023, the University of Sheffield and its partners worked hard to cultivate a healthier, greener, more innovative and culturally vibrant region. Here’s a snapshot of how the Made Together programme is now supporting the transformation of the region.
The South Yorkshire Investment Zone, a Government initiative and the first in the UK, announced its first major initiative – positioning South Yorkshire at the forefront of UK efforts to make the aviation industry more sustainable. Composites at Speed and Scale, known as COMPASS, will be built as an extension to the AMRC’s factory 2050, based at the university Innovation district, that will pioneer new methods for manufacturing lightweight aircraft components. And of course in creating high-skilled jobs, it’s also driving investment into the UK’s aerospace sector.
The South Yorkshire Investment Zone also positions the Sheffield Spine as a hub for trailblazing spinout and start-up companies in tech and life sciences. This will connect the University’s campus to West Bar Square – bringing together the ongoing development of Kelham Island and Castlegate into the region’s Innovation District on the Sheffield/Rotherham border.
Meanwhile, Northern Gritstone, the investment company founded by the Universities of Sheffield, Leeds and Manchester, announced a £2 million investment for the world’s first low-energy, nonoil-based, high-performance bioplastic – developed by a company called Floreon and the University of Sheffield.
Rejuvenating the region
Walk down Fargate and High Street in Sheffield and you’ll see a transformation is well under way. The work, funded by the University’s support for the City Council’s successful £15.8 million Future High Street fund bid, will realise a shared vision of a futureproofed city centre, catering to visitors of all ages.
And it doesn’t stop there. We’ve been working with Sheffield City Council, civic organisations, local businesses and community groups to produce a vision for the regeneration of Sheffield’s historic Castlegate area. This work helped to attract £17.5 million in Levelling Up funding which – among other regeneration projects – will see the restoration of a landmark Grade II listed building to create Harmony Works, a new cultural centre for young musicians from across the region.
Revolutionising healthcare
October saw the launch of the £4 million South Yorkshire Digital Health Hub, to help tackle the stark health inequalities across our region. The Hub will improve people’s quality of life by creating digital health tools, using data from multiple sources including the NHS. Led by the University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam University, the Hub brings together partners from across the region including: hospitals, GPs, mental health services, businesses, the South Yorkshire Integrated Care System and patient and public groups.
Further investment in the region included a £5 million UKRI Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council funding boost.
This will transform the thriving Yorkshire MedTech industry, and benefit an estimated two million patients by 2040.
Overseen by the University of Sheffield and University of Leeds, the investment sees civic partners including South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority, West Yorkshire Combined Authority and regional NHS Trusts work together to create MedTech jobs as well as opportunities for economic growth.
The University’s Julia Garnham Centre, is also working with the Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust to help the NHS tackle the backlog in cancer and rare genetic diseases. As well as helping to save young lives locally and nationally, the Centre is training the next generation of geneticists to continue this vital work.
Discover more about the Made Together programme at sheffield.ac.uk/madetogether
Thriving culture
The University delivered one of the most successful Off the Shelf festivals, attracting a record-breaking 17,000+ people to the city. Now one of the largest literary events in the country, Off the Shelf offered a line-up of international talent, and platformed diverse, local voices –with a third of the festival content from underrepresented groups.
The potential to create 3,000 jobs by the mid 2030’s £2 billion annually.
Estimated value to the UK economy in exports
Elsewhere, support for Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council’s £3 million Cultural Development Fund (CDF) grant will drive cultural connectivity while complementing work with local communities in defining Barnsley’s cultural character. Through the Storying Goldthorpe project, we’re connecting with local people to document the area’s unique character and discuss its future. A second project, Mapping Barnsley, teams us up with local artists to inform Barnsley’s new Cultural Strategy – identifying the diverse range of organisations and individuals that make up the area’s cultural sector.
COMPASS is one of the North of England’s largest research and innovation projects.
Jarvis Cocker and artist Jeremy Deller
(l) Professor Steve Haake (Sheffield Hallam University) and (r) Professor Tim Chico (University of Sheffield)
My Sheffield
Lee Child, award-winning novelist and creator of Jack Reacher
Lee studied Law at the University of Sheffield, though he never intended to become a lawyer – learning instead for the sheer joy of it. In much the same way, he created the character Jack Reacher for himself after an acrimonious split from TV company Granada in the 90s.
Little did he know his books would reach an audience of hundreds of millions, be translated into 51 languages in 101 countries, adapted into film and now a massively successful series on Amazon.
Speaking to us from his home in New York, Lee shares his memories of Sheffield in the 1970s, how a love of the theatre led him into TV, and why Reacher will never die – thanks to the help of his younger brother and fellow Sheffield alumnus Andrew.
What do you remember of your time at university?
Things that I remember most are very hard to talk to modern day students about. Virtually nobody went to uni – about 15% of school leavers. And it was more or less exclusively white and middle class. In that sense it was really unchanged since maybe the 1950s… except that instead of wearing tweed jackets and smoking a pipe, it was bell bottoms and tie dye.
Why did you choose to study at Sheffield?
After high school I went on a long, rambling, crazy European hitchhiking adventure with some friends, all summer long. Then I rolled into my house in Birmingham late in September and there was a little pile of mail waiting for me including my A-level results. I looked at a few unis and Sheffield had a brochure that showed the Arts Tower against this brilliant blue sky and the University theatre which was a little converted church.
So I thought ‘great, I’ll go there.’
What attracted you to law?
I was curious. I was ready to learn. I wanted to devour things and the law seemed to me an amalgamation of everything that I was interested in – history, politics, economics, sociology, language. The law is a snapshot of all of those things at any one time. A case decided in 1933 reflects the society and the politics and the economics of the time. So it seemed to me to be a really integrated type of education where you would learn all kinds of fascinating implications.
How has studying law shaped your view of the world?
The thing about the law is it gives you a really excellent sense of what is likely to be true and what isn’t.
So, I’ve been fearless all my life: if some bureaucracy gets in the way or something like that, I take them on because I understand the principles. I definitely recommend it – even if you don’t want to be a lawyer, study the law.
Sheffield is famous for its SU and societies. How did you spend your time outside of lectures?
I thought about girlfriends, music, what gig I was gonna go see that night. Theatre group was my main thing. I had zero on-stage talent. I just couldn’t do it. Mostly I was stage manager or lighting director – something behind the scenes. I was very much a backstage person.
I love the transaction of the theatre, I love that immediacy of real-time response from an audience and the feeling in that moment is just intoxicating.
You don’t really get that writing a novel, do you?
No. You absolutely don’t. I would have stayed in the theatre except it was just so difficult to make a living: pay was terrible and work was extremely insecure.
And I was also convinced by Peter Brook’s book, The Empty Space, which said all the theatre needs is some actors and an empty space in which to perform. I felt backstage people were fundamentally superfluous.
Is that how you came to work in television?
I needed to find somewhere backstage people were absolutely essential. So, I thought I’ll go to television. That was one of the three jobs that I applied for –and the one I took was at Granada television in Manchester.
How did it compare to student life?
You could earn a hundred pounds a week – a big jump from my maintenance grant. And I was very happy there because it coincided with the beginning of a great era for Granada. There would be all kinds of things going on in a super chaotic way. We were just flying by the seat of our pants. It was a tiny company, it felt more like a family. Until it went wrong in the 1990s.
You’ve spoken about the sacking and how your first novel came out of this rage. Do you look back and think that they did you a favour?
I felt stabbed in the back. Being unemployed at the age of 40, with a teenage daughter and a mortgage, is a disaster. So, yeah, it was a springboard, the fury and the anger and the energy that it produced in me in order to get out of trouble obviously powered the next phase of my life. But if one of those guys were to come visit me now and say I did you a favour, I’d punch him in the face.
Did you consider working for another TV company?
At Granada I was a union shop steward and I was very effective. I was a total pain in their ass. Even though we ultimately lost the war, we won practically every battle along the way. So I was blacklisted, that much was obvious. I was never going to work in that industry again. It was good in a way. It just clarified everything for me. I had to do something different.
So you set out to create the ultimate avenging angel character?
I had never thought about becoming a writer. Entertainment was what I wanted to do, since I was nine and I wanted to be in the Beatles. I wanted the transaction, doing something that gave people intense joy and happiness. And to be completely honest about it, I was looking for the love and approval I didn’t get when I was growing up.
This wasn’t a conscious thing?
Right, it was an unconscious thing. What I was conscious of when I started writing was complicated because I had been a reader all my life, since I was three years old. I understood that I couldn’t plan to be a success. If you sit down and think ‘I’m unemployed, I’ve got the rest of my life to look after.
I need a successful project here,’ then you’ve lost. I had to ignore everything and just write instinctively. If you write a book that you are 100% happy with, then that book has got a beating heart of its own. Then the only question is how many other people are going to like it. And there will be hundreds… if not thousands.
If you didn’t write Jack Reacher, surely the publishing industry would have had to invent him?
Well, the truth about Jack Reacher is that he of course has been invented over and over again over the millennia. The idea of the mysterious stranger or the noble loner who shows up in the nick of time and solves a problem and then rides off into the sunset. That character has been around forever. The gunslinger of late 19th century America, which itself was just an
adaptation of European myth from the Middle Ages, which was really an adaptation of Scandinavian sagas and Saxon battle poems all the way back to Greek myth really.
How much have you changed what you do based on what the market wants versus what you wanted to write yourself?
When I started, everybody else had this kind of full cast of characters. I thought alright, I’ll do something different. So Reacher has no home, has no job – there is nothing recurring, no soap opera. It’s just him in a new adventure every time. It’s satisfying in a literary sense to people who are habitual readers, and accessible to people that are not. I’ve put all my energy into preventing him from changing. The fascination of Reacher is he already knows stuff. He doesn’t need to learn. He’s a rock.
So, what will you do with your retirement? You don’t seem the daytime TV type.
When I was at primary school my grandad retired, and my mum explained that he doesn’t go to work anymore, he just stays at home and does what he wants. And I thought ‘Damn, that seems like a pretty good deal.’ I’m really just easing into it.
Lee joined fellow graduates at the USA Alumni Reunion!
Guests were treated to an exclusive interview with Lee to learn about his time at Sheffield, his Hollywood adventures and even enjoy an impromptu Jack Reacher book signing.
Watch the exclusive interview here: https://bit.ly/3XMYAgZ
Learning to laugh
How Sheffield makes funny people
Sheffield has been called a haven for walkers, a musical powerhouse and home to some of the finest food north of London. But we’re rarely called the capital of comedy. And yet there’s definitely something about the city and the University that creates funny people. Like every creative endeavour, comedy is taken very seriously by the University – with both the Comedy Revue and Sheffield Comedy Improvisation Society (SHRIMPS) well-supported by the SU… and sometimes by their audiences.
While we work on our material, take a look at some of the recentish alumni who are making us laugh right now.
Instagram and Twitter: @munyachawawa
Being effortlessly funny is hard work. Fortunately for us, Munya Chawawa (BSc Psychology 2014) is an absolute grafter. Producer, presenter, writer, performer and singer – Munya credits his work ethic to the chunk of his childhood spent in Zimbabwe. He said that there, academic attainment was the social currency, and that “... everyone was shredded because we had to do two hours of sport after school every day.” The family moved back to the UK when Munya was 11. So Munya has Robert Mugabe to thank for spending his teenage years in Framingham Pigot.
Being cool in Nottinghamshire had nothing to do with intelligence, and he was soon the bullies’ favourite target. Maybe it was this combination of factors that equipped Munya to ultimately win the popularity contest that is
“Being a host on Forge Radio and presenter for Forge TV was a springboard of gold-medal-winningBritish-gymnast proportions.”
high school (head boy, playground breakdance champion). And for the rapid reaction satire that ultimately gave him his biggest break – beginning in 2019 by taking on Jamie Oliver’s cultural appropriation of Jamaican food with the character Jonny Oliver. Or maybe it was the years and years he spent honing his craft on our own Forge Media: “Being a host on Forge Radio and presenter for Forge TV was a springboard of gold-medal-winning-Britishgymnast proportions. I presented on the red carpet at the BRITs 2014, became a music presenter for PopShack TV and 4Music, and even became the first student in the UK to wear Google Glass to record their graduation.”
In a 2015 graduate profile, Munya said: “The one piece of advice I will give is: stop mincing with diluted ambitions, define your goal and chase it unremittingly until not a single person can deny you are good at what you do.”
Munya Chawawa
Helen Monks
Instagram: @helencmonks and @lungtheatre
“My name is Helen Monks and I graduated from the School of English a year ago and now I’m working as a professional actor,” explains Helen in a 2014 interview for the uni. “I was really lucky that I auditioned for Raised by Wolves while I was still studying at Sheffield. They let me go and do that and then I filmed it the summer after I graduated.”
That’s Helen (English and Theatre 2014) playing down what has got to be the best-deserved or luckiest break into comedy and acting –and it happened because of a joke.
“I was hugely sad to leave the University of Sheffield, but you know, it’s Sheffield for life. What I learned there I’ll carry with me forever.”
Helen went home from Sheffield to Birmingham for one night to see Caitlin Moran at a literary festival… “During the event Caitlin mentioned she was penning a sitcom with her sister and goddess Caz, and so when I went to get my book signed at the end I told her ‘I should totally play you,’ and unbelievably she said, ‘Yes! You should!’”
That was all in 2014. Ten years later, her CV not only includes playing Germaine in two series of Raised By Wolves – based on Caitlin Moran’s life – but also Maja Einstein in Genius, Susanna in Upstart Crow, plus appearances in Inside No 9, and voicing Roderika in the global gaming phenomenon Elden Ring.
There’s much more to Helen Monks than these comedy roles. Just recently, she appeared in A Midsummer Night’s Dream with the RSC in Stratford, and since 2015 she’s been the co-artistic director of LUNG – a campaign-led theatre company that uses people’s actual words to tell hidden stories.
“Theatre gives you this massive freedom,” she says. “All you need is the venue, then you can do anything you want.”
Here, Helen has written and performed one-woman shows and tested her new stand-up sets. And she’s worked with the LUNG team to shine a light on political, social and economic issues in modern Britain. Though it tours nationally, LUNG is based in Barnsley – so Helen still has a connection with the region. We like to think it has something to do with us.
“During my time at the University of Sheffield there were huge amounts of resources that allowed you to sort of facilitate your own work – like an actual theatre where I previewed the shows that I’d written for the Fringe. I was hugely sad to leave there, but you know, it’s like Sheffield for life. What I learned there I’ll carry with me forever.”
Tim Key
Instagram: @Timkeypoet Twitter: @Timkeyperson
Tim Key (BA Russian Studies 2000) is a comedian, poet, actor and writer renowned for his unique blend of deadpan delivery and absurdist humour.
Or as one fan put it: “He makes me laugh and I don’t even know why he’s funny.”
Maybe that’s because, more often than not, he’s doing about five things all at once. But there’s no doubt that Tim is funny, by anyone’s standards. From the Fringe award-winning material like “Drive-Thru McDonalds was more expensive than I thought... once you’ve hired the car…” to roles including Alan Partridge’s sidekick Simon, The Witchfinder, and Tweeting a 45 second video of himself riding the paternoster lift at the Arts Tower.
Running through, under and around the rest of his career is Tim Key the poet – author of five anthologies and into his sixth series of Tim Key’s Late Night Poetry Programme. His poems craft worlds that are funny, ridiculous, touching and last for only a few lines. But what is his secret?
“I’ve written 3,000 poems – it’s easy if you’ve got no quality control.”
Journalist, comedian, mum, best-selling author and worldrecord holder – Ellie Gibson (BA Hons English Literature 1999) is one of a kind.
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Actually, she’s part of a one-of-akind duo, the Scummy Mummies, with her best friend Helen Thorn, which started as a podcast and has evolved into a live show, book and all manner of adventures.
She also appears on the gaming panel show Dara Ó Briain’s Go 8 Bit on Dave, and runs her own gaming Twitch channel, EllieGibsonGames. In fact she has been a gaming journalist since 2003, but it is the Scummy Mummies which have defined the last 11 years or so of Ellie’s career. Beginning when Gibson met Australian comedian Thorn doing standup, the number one parenting podcast grew with their friendship.
Today, they’ve recorded over 270 episodes and they reach a loyal audience of millions. And they’re breaking the odd record too.
In March 2023, Ellie and Helen set the record for the highest ever live comedy gig at Mount Everest’s South base camp. Unlike the previous record holder, they walked the 11 miles to the base camp.
Though it took months of training, including running the London Marathon together and trekking for 100 miles through the Lake District, Ellie and Helen took it all in their stride.
We’ve been through hard times before, like that gig in a Thai restaurant in Manchester to nine people. Trekking to Everest was easy peasy by comparison.”
Treating the untreatable
Why neuroscience needs SITraN to grow
It’s 14 years since Professor Dame Pamela Shaw’s vision for a translational research centre became a reality. The idea – to bring together worldleading scientists and clinicians to prevent and treat devastating neurodegenerative diseases – has had a greater, more wideranging impact than perhaps anyone thought possible. We spoke to SITraN Director Professor Shaw about this impact, her experience and her new vision for what comes next.
“In 2010 the idea was that SITraN would double the capacity we have for research and clinical testing of therapies. Since then, we’ve actually tripled that capacity… but people are still on the waiting list!” says Professor Shaw. “Industry partners want to collaborate, they want us to test their drugs, but we can’t accommodate everyone. I want the drug screening facilities to be widely available to test potential new neuroprotective therapies.”
That SITraN is so successful is due in no small part to Pam Shaw’s own contribution. An internationally renowned clinician and academic researcher, her molecular, genetic and clinical contributions to the field have brought her multiple prizes, including the Wellcome Senior Fellowship in Clinical Science between 1991 and 2000. In 2014, she was made a Dame and in 2022 she received the British Neuroscience Association award for an outstanding contribution to Neuroscience.
Revolutionary treatment for MND
Professor Shaw, her team and SITraN are perhaps best known for the translational research that led to improved outcomes for patients with motor neurone disease (MND). QALSODY, the first genetic treatment for a type of MND, is an excellent case study for why SITraN should expand.
QALSODY has been shown to reduce the levels of a toxic cell protein in people living with a form of MND, triggered by a faulty gene called SOD1. Two percent of people living with MND have a mistake in SOD1, which produces a faulty protein that’s toxic to motor neurons. QALSODY directly interferes with the genetic instructions for the faulty SOD1 protein, preventing its production and so slowing the progression of the disease.
“Professor Mimoun Azzouz and myself demonstrated at SITraN that lowering the protein worked in preclinical models. This gave confidence to drug company Biogen who sponsored the tofersen trials that this could work in humans,” explains Pamela.
“I’ve done 25 clinical trials for MND and this is the first one where people have not only reported that they were stable, but some patients were even getting stronger.”
The University of Sheffield with Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust was the only site in the UK to have participated in the international clinical trial. Phase 1 and 2 testing not only showed promise, but led to lifeenhancing changes for many of those taking part.
“These were very exciting results,” Professor Shaw recalls.
The potential to change millions of lives
While QALSODY is going through its approval process with NICE, it has already been approved in the US under the FDA’s accelerated approval pathway and recently approved by the European Medicines Agency. The team is now working on proving its clinical benefit with earlier treatment intervention, in a further phase 3 trial, called ATLAS.
Professor Shaw has high hopes for this stage: “Originally we only enrolled individuals who had symptoms of SOD1-MND. Now we’re recruiting pre-symptomatic people – those who know that they have the SOD1 mutation but who are currently in good health. We’re testing them for a biomarker which gives an early read-out of motor neuron injury so they can go on QALSODY at the very earliest stage, and so see the potential difference the drug can make. My feeling is, the earlier, the better.”
If QALSODY is successful in this trial, the data would most likely convince the US, UK and the EU to keep or approve QALSODY for general release on the market –helping many people with this rare MND sub type. In the meantime, people in the UK can access treatment via Biogen’s expanded access programme.
But the role of SITraN, and the translational work that led to QALSODY, shows the incredible changes the Institute and now a sister centre could have for people with neurodegenerative diseases more broadly.
New testing brings new hope
“Neurofilament light chain proteins are released into spinal fluid and blood when neurons are damaged or dead. Reducing levels of this biomarker shows that QALSODY is working,” explains Professor Shaw. “But this way of testing is not limited to the SOD1 variant. And it means we can test for positive treatment effects much more quickly.”
The FDA’s QALSODY approval was largely based on the way the drug reduced this biomarker of neuronal damage. Testing for this involves testing a patient’s spinal fluid using a lumbar puncture or with a simple blood sample. Measuring a decrease in neurofilament levels may give an early signal that a treatment is working, as clinical changes take longer to be seen. Not only is this a powerful tool for scientists at SITraN and around the world, it also brings hope for the global MND community that new treatments will be available soon.
Unsurprisingly, Professor Shaw and her peers are already making progress.
Maintaining momentum
Professor Shaw’s case for the expansion of SITraN and medical teaching is a compelling mix of conviction and irrefutable logic.
“Neuroscience is moving fast. With technologies like multiomics, where we combine massive datasets to dig down into cells, genes, proteins and find new connections, new biomarkers, there is so much potential to find new therapeutic targets,” she explains.
Seen alongside the exponential rate of the Institutes’ contribution to the field, it’s no wonder then that fundraising for the new institute is fast approaching the £24 million target. In fact, Dame Pamela is already meeting with the University’s Estates team and appointed architects to create the building’s plans.
“We’ve had so many donations from alumni. And with events like The Big Walk and knowing the generosity of our supporters in the region, I’m confident we can make this happen. Together, we will get there.”
Find out more
For more information on testing for inherited MND, visit mndassociation.org
Find out how to donate to the project here sheffield.ac.uk/giving/ causes/mnd “ To maintain momentum, to build on our success, we need to recruit the best people, and buy the latest equipment. And that means we have to expand.”
AMRC Training Centre
New blood keeps industry alive
It’s been a decade since the University of Sheffield AMRC Training Centre opened its doors. That’s ten years of unforgettable industry experience for 1,700 students. And fresh talent for more than 400 businesses. To mark the occasion we asked tutors, apprentices and employers past and present what the centre has meant to them.
Inspiring the next generation
First up is Bethany Cousins, one of the very first students to study at the centre. Beth started as an advanced apprentice in manufacturing engineering. Now 28, Beth is an award-winning role model for young female engineers. And she’s one of the team next door at the AMRC.
“My apprenticeship at the AMRC Training Centre paved the way to my career, I wouldn’t have got both the practical and theoretical experience in any other way.”
“I enjoyed meeting other apprentices, especially those who were based in other companies. It enabled me to hear about how others applied the theory and perhaps did things a little differently, it was a great learning experience.”
New apprentice Lola is working with McLaren Racing – home to the Formula 1, IndyCar, Formula E, Extreme E and e-sports teams. Though they’re ten years apart, Lola’s experience mirrors Beth’s: “Working at McLaren, while undertaking my studies at the AMRC Training Centre, was the best thing that could have happened for me… apprenticeships help to transfer the vital skills of others in industry, to prepare the next generation.”
View from the inside Gareth Wilkinson, the AMRC Training Centre’s Head of Skills, knows how important it is to keep thinking about the future.
“I was one of the first to be employed by the University’s AMRC Training Centre,” Gareth explains.
“We built everything from the ground up, started to deliver engineering frameworks and were the early adopters of the new apprenticeship standards. I don’t think there has been an intake year over the last decade where we’ve had the same recruitment strategy for more than one year.”
Where does Gareth see the AMRC Training Centre in the next ten years? “I’d like for us to… build on what we’ve got, as well as exploring the food and drink sector, nuclear, robotics and Industry 4.0.”
For new engineering tutor Animesh Anand, apprentices are not only essential to meeting new challenges. Each one will shape the future of their industry in many different ways, which is why Animesh tailors his teaching:
“I can teach the same lesson to four different groups, but they are not taught the same way, as each group is different,” he said. “I try to tailor my teaching to the individual as best I can.”
Animesh also advocates for diversity and inclusion in engineering, adding: “I’ve worked a lot with the UK’s Institute of Materials, Mining and Minerals (IMO3). I’m vice chair of its ablydifferent and LGBT+ committees.
One of the biggest things I talk about when it comes to diversity in engineering is encouraging diverse discussion,” he explains.
“It’s great to see the AMRC Training Centre carrying that diversity message too and being open to expand on it more in the future.”
The partners’ perspective
The AMRC Training Centre’s apprenticeships are made possible thanks to the work of employers of all kinds. We give the last word to two very different companies – one global, and one local SME.
Boeing was the AMRC’s first major partner in 2001. They’ve been an advocate of the AMRC Training Centre since its creation. Early Careers Lead at Boeing Gabriella Stannah explains:
“At Boeing, we are committed to supporting the UK aerospace industry’s expansion, and with partners including the AMRC Training Centre, our apprenticeships are helping to build the skills needed to drive future growth.
They also support our goals to build a diverse, productive workforce, by creating opportunities for people who may not previously have considered a career in aerospace.”
Chesterfield’s Penny Hydraulics has been a partner for seven years. According to HR manager Martha Penny, more than one third of their staff joined as apprentices: “Five of these staff now have permanent roles and six are at various stages of their apprenticeship journey, ranging from advanced through to degree apprenticeships – and we plan to take on another AMRC Training Centre apprentice this year, so the relationship continues.”
It’s clear that the AMRC Training Centre and its apprentices are keeping manufacturing alive in the region. They’re doing it while gaining life-changing career experience for themselves. And shaping a sustainable, prosperous future for the country. Proof that you can only create a ‘tomorrow, done better’ by investing in people, today.
Celebrating 10 YEARS
New foundations for mature students
Finding a new career, exploring something about yourself or following a childhood passion that’s never gone away – coming to education later in life is a giant leap for most people. And it’s one we’ve always tried to support in any way we can.
This year, the Department for Lifelong Learning (DLL) is celebrating a decade of the dedicated Foundation Year for mature students. We caught up with seven of the programme’s graduates to hear their reasons for returning to education, and to learn how studying a degree with a foundation year has shaped their lives.
If you’ve been out of education for two years or two decades the Foundation Year offers a way back in, by opening up 40 different degrees across four faculties.
And there are so many reasons why people decide to come back to learning, probably as many as there are graduates, but all of them share one motivation: changing their lives for the better.
For Ben Langhorne (BA Archaeology with Foundation Year 2019), it was as much about learning for its own sake as it was about expanding career options. Though it also became a journey of self discovery: “I had no idea that I was capable of so much before I started my studies,” he admits.
After graduating with a first, Ben’s career took off – working first as a Geomatics Technician for Wessex Archaeology, and more recently as a Business Analyst and Power Platform Developer for South Yorkshire Police. “Without the skills, knowledge and highly regarded degree I gained from the University, I would never have had the opportunity or ability to get to where I am now in my career.”
“I had no idea that I was capable of so much before I started my studies.”
Ben Langhorne (BA Archaeology with Foundation Year 2019)
Life experience counts
Unlike traditional routes into university, admission to a degree with a foundation year at Sheffield is based upon work and life experience, and passion and commitment for your course, rather than upon prior educational qualifications. And we believe Sheffield is still the only member of the Russell Group to offer dedicated full-time foundation years designed specifically for mature students without formal qualifications.
Mike Dando (BA History with Foundation 2021) is a great example. He joined the Army at 16 and, nearly six years later, came out wondering about his next step: “My time at the university really developed me intellectually (not including the time I spent in the pub), and gaining a firstclass degree was my greatest achievement to date.” Mike obviously managed to balance his social life and study, because he’s gone on to gain a scholarship to study for an MSc in Accounting, Governance and Financial Management, and is now working towards becoming a Chartered Accountant.
For you and for your children
Providing for a family is often the reason why many students missed out on a university education earlier in life – and a powerful motivator for returning to learning later.
Abid Mirza (MPlan Urban Studies and Planning with Foundation Year 2023) expresses this perfectly: “At 31, I wanted a career beyond the labour industry. More importantly, I wanted to be a role model for my kids and to encourage them to get an education.”
At the Department for Lifelong Learning, we know how to support making that change.
Linda Walmsley (BA Education, Childhood and Culture with Foundation Year 2019) now works as an Education Welfare Officer for Achieving for Children, a career that began thanks to our expert staff: “I wanted a better life for myself and for my children. Now I’m doing a job that I love, helping others achieve their dream,” says Linda. “As a lone parent, I don’t think I would have finished the course if it wasn’t for the support and understanding I received.”
“As a lone parent, I don’t think I would have finished the course if it wasn’t for the support and understanding I received.”
Linda Walmsley (BA Education, Childhood and Culture with Foundation Year 2019)
Currently studying for a PhD, Annie Harpham-Brown (BA Sociology with Foundation Year 2020) juggled studying with being a parent, too. Her son was born during her second year and, although it presents its own challenges, “...studying feels like I have something for myself outside of being a mum, but that will ultimately allow me to provide for my family.”
Of course, the journey we take through education isn’t always straightforward. David Kandrac (BA Education, Culture and Childhood with Foundation Year 2021) is Slovak-Roma and came to this country with his family to escape educational segregation, racial prejudice and xenophobia. “In Slovakia, the Roma are quite literally segregated from the main community, even attending different schools. Academic qualifications are also typically not given any recognition in my culture, which means that most of my family are illiterate.”
Annie Harpham-Brown
“My educational journey has never finished…. It’s just started!”
David Kandrac (BA Education, Culture and Childhood with Foundation Year 2021)
“Access to education was challenging because of political instability in my country of origin. But this did not impact my motivation,” she explains.
“I worked so hard at every level of my studies. I’m so glad I had the best support from all my tutors. My self motivation and this encouragement and support is what made it possible to achieve my goals.”
Celebrating 30 years of Journalism at Sheffield
When David moved to England, he faced significant language and cultural barriers, and eventually he was excluded from secondary school.
After what he describes as years of preparation, David returned to education through the Foundation Year programme in 2017 –graduating with first-class honours in 2021, and going on to achieve a distinction in his masters degree in Psychology and Education in 2023. During his studies, David has dedicated himself to community engagement work and advocacy, and conducted research on Roma inequalities in education, which he was invited to present to the University of South Wales – returning later as an Expert by Experience to teach their social work students.
Like many mature students, set against his personal challenges and the social issues of the time, David’s achievements shine all the more brightly: “I am proud of myself for being able to study, work, look after our three children, deal with various challenges during the Covid-19 pandemic and still be able to achieve a distinction in my degree, secure an unconditional place on the masters programme and be selected for the Sheffield Postgraduate Scholarship.”
He’s now working with Police, NHS and Social Services as a freelance interpreter and Roma consultant. In September 2024, he will begin studying for an MA in Law. “My educational journey has never finished…. It’s just started!”
Despite personal ambitions, the option of further education can be taken away by circumstances way beyond our control. Shukri Farah (BMs Orthoptics with a Foundation Year 2021) came to the UK through the refugees’ support scheme, and earned her place on the Foundation programme.
For any mature students who are interested in studying through the Department for Lifelong Learning, Shukri has some words of advice:
“I would advise you to not hesitate. It’s not until you’ve tried that you’ll know your full potential. Whatever degree pathway you choose it’s a guarantee you’ll get the best support towards attaining that degree at the University of Sheffield.”
“It’s not until you’ve tried that you’ll know your full potential.”
Shukri Farah (BMs Orthoptics with a Foundation Year 2021)
Ready to return to learning?
We value life and work experience, and lack of traditional qualifications is no barrier to entry. Visit sheffield.ac.uk/dll to find out more.
It was three decades ago this September that 45 students stepped through the door of Minalloy House to begin their studies in a brand new department. Established by former Observer editor Donald Trelford, Sheffield’s Department of Journalism officially opened in 1994. Hoping to find out more about life as a Sheffield journo in the mid-90s, two of our current undergraduate students Charlie Fenton and Sebastian Jones caught up with two of that first, fresh-faced cohort: True North Creative Director Christian Hills and former Comedy Central Commissioner Chris Curley.
Chris begins by admitting that moving to Sheffield was very much out of his comfort zone: “After my A-Levels, I had meetings with production companies for runner jobs. They said go to university and get some life experience. I had no idea what that was, so I came here to find out.”
In contrast, Christian is a Sheffield native but had only a casual interest in sports reporting:
“I hadn’t given Journalism much thought, but over the three years at Sheffield, it changed my life.”
Looking at the two successful alumni now, it’s hard to imagine them as inexperienced students –but like all of us, Chris and Christian learned from failure as much as from the expertise of their tutors.
“I remember a lot of things going wrong!” says Chris. “We were filming our pieces to camera one day. Our friend Kelly did hers in front of the big Christmas tree, which looked like it was coming out of the top of her head. Then when we got back, we realised we hadn’t switched the microphone on… It was embarrassing, but it certainly never happened again.”
Alongside brutal grammar corrections from veteran journalist tutors, Christian recalls handing in his final year portfolio, only to find the floppy disk was corrupted. Looking round at the new facilities in The Wave, it’s hard for him not to feel a little bit envious: “The equipment was a world away from what you have now,” says Christian. Chris agrees: “You’ve got an absolute playground of facilities. If I was here now I’d definitely have a podcast. Up early with Curley!”
Though the kit might have been different, the quality of the teaching and the opportunities –like a once-in-a-lifetime work placement at the LA Times for Chris – meant both graduated with skills they needed to carve out an exciting career. “I spent four years working as a sports journalist at Granada TV in Manchester,” says Christian. “That was an exciting time… and getting paid to watch football felt like the best job in the world!
“After that I sort of just worked my way up through the industry. Now I work in factuals [documentary and factual programming]. Meeting interesting people and telling stories is the best part of the job.”
Like Christian, Chris worked his way up: “I started off making the tea and coffee, climbed the ladder to become a commissioning editor and produce programmes,” he explains. And, just like the School of Journalism, Chris is still building on those founding principles: “The things I learnt then, I still use now. And the fact I’m doing this job, 30 years later, is probably my biggest achievement.”
David Kandrac
Marion had an enquiring mind which she applied to every aspect of her life, from teaching and charity work, to gardening and travel. She is remembered as a kind, thoughtful and giving friend whose fierce independence took her around the world, and touched so many lives. We take a look back at Marion’s life, and the impact her generous legacy gift to the University’s Department of Geography will have for the next generation.
The far-reaching gift of Marion Wiles
8th October 1931 to 27th November 2022
BA Geography 1953
Marion graduated from the University of Sheffield in 1953 with a degree in Geography –and many life-long friends. She went on to train as a Geography teacher herself, teaching in Grammar schools for the next 12 years. In 1965, Marion returned to her hometown of Welwyn Garden City and a new adventure: teaching at Tewin Water school for deaf children.
Marion devoted her life to teaching children with hearing impairments. She went on to gain a diploma in this specialist subject from London University in 1968 – and later a master’s degree in Educational Audiology from Manchester University.
No matter the size of the donation, leaving a gift in your Will is an extraordinary way to support the University and celebrate your life. If you’d like to talk about your own legacy, you can have a confidential conversation with our with Philanthropy Manager David Meadows.
Marion’s love for geography, particularly field trips, meant that the children in her classes also enjoyed lessons in outdoor activities like swimming and sailing.
Funding life-changing experiences
In her retirement, Marion was a keen traveller – visiting the USA, New Zealand, Australia, Canada, South Africa, Egypt, and Kenya – not to mention a dedicated gardener, needleworker and cook. She loved where she lived, and brought so much to those around her. She is remembered as a generous, active supporter of many local charities and organisations, from the Guides to Welwyn Garden City Horticultural Society and Saint Francis church.
Though she passed away at the age of 91, Marion is still giving back thanks to her gift of £180,000 to the University of Sheffield’s Geography department. With this kind donation, the department is now funding those all-important field trips.
Professor Matt Watson, Head of the Department of Geography, said: “We feel that this is a fitting tribute to Marion which will directly benefit students in a way she would have appreciated.”
By leaving this legacy in her Will, Marion has helped masters students from low-income backgrounds access opportunities that inspire a new level of learning.
“There’s no better way to learn about field work than to experience it yourself,” explains Rachael (MA, International Development). “Although challenging at times, it was a very rewarding experience and I loved every minute of it. I now feel more prepared to carry out my dissertation.”
And these experiences don’t just support study. They enrich students’ understanding of the world, as Shahreen (MA,
“The field class in Tanzania provided the incredible opportunity to bring case studies we had always read about in books and lectures to life through handson fieldwork. I was able to learn about issues in water, health and sanitation through the voices of local people. Conducting research in the rich and vibrant culture of Tanzania was an unforgettable experience.” After learning about Marion, her life and her love of geography, we can’t think of a
(centre) on the 1950 RAG parade
Marion with Rufus, her beloved dog
In profile
After a last minute change of heart – and subject – from English Language to Business Studies, Ailis’ career has taken her from Sheffield to a graduate programme, strategic consultant, and finally to building a multi-million pound business from a lockdown hobby.
“Neither the course nor Sheffield were my first choice. But two months before A-Level results, I realised I just loved the subject, and I fell in love with Sheffield too. To this day, it’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I would go back and do those three years over and over.
The course was an amazing foundation, and I got to study exactly what excited me about the subject – the psychology and the ethics behind it. Why do people buy in a particular way? What drives us as consumers? After graduation I took what I’d learned and applied it in the real world.
Ailis Topley BA Business Management 2014
Founder at Pott Candles; Forbes 30U30; Young Entrepreneur of The Year (Great British Entrepreneur Awards)
Kris
Gibbon-Walsh Chemistry MSc 2005; Honorary Doctor of Letters 2023
Chief Operating Officer at FareShare UK; Chair of UK Emergency Partnership Food group; Chair of Hardship and Hunger Steering Committee; Global charity Founder and trustee.
First on a graduate placement at Yum!, and then as a consultant.
When the pandemic came along I was in Australia, about as far away from my family as it was possible to be. Like so many people, I found comfort in a neglected hobby – candle making. I gave them to friends, who returned the empty pots back for a refill. I started thinking how strange it was that recycling wasn’t the norm. I decided to come home and took the leap to start my business.
It’s hands down the most fulfilling thing I’ve ever done. And the hardest, too. I didn’t know what I was getting into, but I truly believe that naivety is a secret super power and should be harnessed constantly.
Receiving the award from Forbes was a dream come true. It boosted my confidence that refillable candles are the future of the candle world and we could lead the change.
“I truly believe that naivety is a secret super power and should be harnessed constantly.”
I think I’m still naive, and I still don’t know what the future holds, even now. We’re totally disrupting the category, so I remind myself daily that the reason this is hard is because no one’s done it before. We’re at the forefront of this movement of change within the industry – changing customer behaviour when it comes to waste, and doing it in a good and ethical way. We’re totally UK made and we work with real artisans to create the product. I feel proud that no one could replicate the business as it is, and I want to hold on to that authenticity, whatever comes next.”
excel regardless of the path he chooses. After leaving a successful career in post-doc research, Kris moved back to London and began volunteering for FareShare. Over a decade later, Kris has worked his way up from intern to COO – delivering a 300% increase in foods redistributed to charities, among many other achievements. As we hear from Kris, it’s a rise powered by his problem-solving mind, and his passion for creating a better world.
“Sheffield was a massive lifechanging experience for me. Things like Fuzz Club, Corp, listening to new music and playing in bands. I still absolutely love the city and visit regularly for work. At university, I learned the scientific method and how to solve problems. I’ve spent my career using and then transferring those skills. Today, I solve societal problems instead of chemical ones.
I made a career change because I felt like I’d become unbalanced. I was career-heavy and life-poor, whilst not feeling like I was making a difference. Being clever was the easy part. Turning that into something is hard.
So I came back to London where I didn’t have a job… Everyone thought I was crazy.
An internship with FareShare came up and I took it… then they offered me a job. A lot of the jobs that they gave me I’ve done badly, but they keep giving me more stuff. I’ve been very fortunate to keep being promoted. I’m still here because I see the difference that it makes every day.
“I’m ultra motivated to do more and to make bigger changes because I think these small-scale changes aren’t enough, we need fundamental global system change.”
I get approached to work at other charities, but I don’t think right now I can make as big a difference anywhere as I can at FareShare. I love what Fareshare does for the environment and society.
I mean, 2023 was the warmest year on record. We’re falling off the cliff, and we aren’t doing enough.
A third of all food that’s grown is wasted.
If it was a country, it’d be the third biggest carbon emitter in the world.
There are things we can do at an individual level, but I believe working at a systemic level is more likely to solve the actual problem. The relationship between food and consumers drives waste. We expect to buy oranges in winter at 12am. And if it’s not sweet or juicy then we go and buy somewhere else. That kind of availability means that by consequence, if the weather changes or if consumer patterns change, you end up with loads of waste all around the system. Whereas if we ate what was grown seasonally, we would cut waste out of the system at the farm level.
I’m ultra motivated to do more and to make bigger changes because I think these smallscale changes aren’t enough, we need fundamental global system change. It’s like changing careers: looking after your future self is one of the hardest things to think through, but one of the most important. It’s easy to leave it until tomorrow, but behaviour never changes until it’s too late. It’s about taking a deep breath changing those behaviours now and owning it.”
Exposed at an early age to twin passions of cricket and dentistry
Urooj committed herself to both, making her international debut within months of beginning medical school. One of the sport’s youngest female captains, and later the first Pakistani woman to commentate in a men’s international one day match – to say Urooj is an important figure in the sport’s history is an understatement. Though it’s her love for the sport and for learning that drives her.
“Why cricket and dentistry? It happened quite naturally. My parents have run a successful private dental practice since 1980. Most days, after school my mother would bring us back to the office and I’d be leaning over either parents’ shoulder, watching them work. As for cricket, you can’t live in Pakistan without playing or at least watching. It’s the one sport that brings all of us together.
I’m very competitive and come from a sporty family. I was a table tennis champion, Taekwondo black belt, and my siblings and I all swam for nationals as well. But it was cricket that I truly loved.
Dentist; Former Captain Pakistan Women’s Cricket team; Broadcaster and Commentator; Television host.
There was an under-13 boys group at the same club where my dad played. There was no concept of a women’s team or a girl playing, but there was no law against it and eventually, when I was seven, I did get to play, though my dad had to fight for my place. It was the same in the under-17s and under-21s – I was the only girl all the way through.
I knew right away that I had to be at least as good as half the guys to deserve a place on the team. My performance needed to count. And I still believe that, regardless of gender, everyone should be judged on merit above all else.
I think I keep working hard at whatever opportunity I get because I want to break down the barriers for the women that follow me.
The fact I loved fielding also took me a long way. I didn’t mind if I didn’t get to bat or bowl, because I was inspired by Jonty Rhodes, especially that time in the ‘92 World Cup where he sprinted and threw himself at the wicket to run out Inzamam ul Haq. So I just focused on getting better and better and eventually I captained the under-17 boys team. I played with the boys and the girls when
“I’m very competitive and come from a sporty family. I was a table tennis champion, Taekwondo black belt and swam for the nationals like my siblings before me. But it was cricket that I truly loved.”
I came to Sheffield too – Sheffield United boys team had a place for a leg spinner who was a decent fielder and could score a few with the bat in the middle. It was clinical placement during the week, and cricket at the weekends. I made some great friends and lovely memories – like playing against the great Joe Root. I would have loved for it to be longer than a year because of the uni, the teachers and Sheffield itself. It’s a beautiful place. If you want to be quiet and study, nobody will bother you. If you want to really have a good time, everybody will be there with you. If I could have that experience again, I would do it at the drop of a hat.”
Abdi arrived in Sheffield from Somalia with his mum when he was three, and grew up in the Exeter Drive flats. From the way he speaks about his childhood and time at the University of Sheffield, his love for the place is as deep as his love of learning. No surprise then that Abdi became Union president and spent most of his degree protesting against fee increases. Or that he stood as a candidate for Sheffield Central, and now finds himself lead lobbyist for Friends of the Earth. He is a person with that rare combination of an inquiring mind and strong moral compass.
“I chose philosophy because it is a fundamental subject. Everything has a philosophy, and I just loved the fact that I could have three years where I intensely interrogated the world. It’s such a privilege to be able to study for its own sake – to just learn for the joy of learning. Studying is a luxury, but I think it’s a luxury absolutely everyone deserves.
Abdi-Aziz Suleiman
BA Philosophy 2014, Master of Business Administration 2023
Political Affairs Manager, Friends of the Earth
That’s why I campaigned so hard against rising fees. I feel sorry for my Philosophy lecturers because I spent so much of my time protesting! It’s also why I became president of the Union – so I could meet that first wave of students who were paying £9k, rather than £3k. I wanted to make sure those students never saw studying as a simple financial transaction. Because I passionately believe that this experience has a more profound meaning. They’re here to interrogate their souls, to really decide how they want to live, to shape who they are and to realise the world they want to see.
“For me, the best of politics – just like the best of business or activism –
is about trying to find systematic solutions to problems.”
This is how I came to study for an MBA: I’ve always been a campaigner, always challenging power, and I wanted to understand better how one of society’s poles of power works. It was an incredible experience and there are things that tutors told me then that I still think about today. It was part of the journey to standing as an MP for Sheffield Central.
To represent my neighbours and friends would have been an incredible honour. That didn’t work out, but that hasn’t stopped me trying to change the world for the better. For me, the best of politics – just like the best of business or activism – is about trying to find systematic solutions to problems. And climate change is the biggest problem there is. So, as an environmental lobbyist, my job is to try to get whichever government is in power to pass laws that will protect both this country and the world. Maybe saving the world sounds a bit self-important, but that is literally why we’re here! And yes, the fossil fuel lobby is better funded, so it’s definitely a David and Goliath situation. But then, tell me, how did that story turn out for Goliath?”
Dates for your diary
What’s coming up
Your worldwide University community reunites every year at events, online and in person.
Read on to see what’s coming up on campus and beyond, over the next twelve months.
ANNIVERSARY REUNION
LUNCH: CLASSES OF 1959, 1964 AND 1974
Where: Firth Hall, Sheffield
When: 12th September 2024
Celebrate with other alumni marking 65, 60 and 50 years since graduation. Contact alumni@sheffield.ac.uk for more information.
HOUSE OF LORDS ALUMNI RECEPTION
Where: The House of Lords, London When: May 2025
Join us for an evening of networking, drinks and canapés on the banks of the River Thames. This event is open to all alumni, but we use a ballot system to ensure fair ticketing as the event is extremely popular. Look out for further details coming soon.
BRIGHT MINDS
Where: online | When: year-round events
This webinar series offers an insight into current PhD and early career research. Catch up on past events on the UoS Player: sheffield.ac.uk/alumni/bright-minds and keep an eye on our webpages for upcoming webinars.
HERITAGE CIRCLE LUNCH
Where: Firth Hall, Sheffield | When: 8th November 2024
If you’re thinking of leaving a donation in your Will, or have already pledged, come along to this event to see the difference you could make. Contact d.meadows@sheffield.ac.uk or call 0114 222 1073.
Keep an eye on our webpage for individual department reunions and other events coming up in 2025
sheffield.ac.uk/ alumni/events
Volunteering opportunities
Every year, alumni volunteers give their time to support students across the University. If you’ve got a little spare time and valuable experience to share, why not volunteer at this year’s online and in-person events?
COACH CAFE
Where: online | When: year-round events
If you have career experience and insights from your sector to share with our students, please sign up here: sheffield.ac.uk/alumni/coach-cafe
eMENTORING
When: Autumn 2024 (October to December) and Spring 2025 (February to April)
Share your insights and experiences online, over email, phone or video call and help students explore the world of work and life after university.
Find out more and register your interest here: sheffield.ac.uk/ careers/employers/get-involved/ ementor
GLOBAL
ENGINEERING CHALLENGE / ENGINEERING YOU’RE HIRED
Where: On campus
When: January and February 2025
Calling engineering graduates! Take part in our flagship projects and support the engineers of tomorrow.
CITY CONNECTIONS: ARTS AND HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES
City Connections supports students from underrepresented backgrounds to develop their skills on a daylong visit to alumni businesses.
NORTHERN CITY CONNECTIONS
When: November 2024
Inspire students and share your experiences of living and working in Sheffield or the wider North. Sign up today and enhance someone’s career prospects.
LONDON CITY CONNECTIONS
When: Spring 2025
Are you a Social Sciences or Arts and Humanities graduate now based in London? Students need your advice on building a career in the capital.
Find out more at: sheffield.ac.uk/alumni/ volunteer/opportunities
INTERNATIONAL EVENTS
Our global alumni network is made up of over 330,000 alumni in 205 countries. Connect with fellow alumni and find out more about our upcoming events here: sheffield.ac.uk/alumni/events
Your notes and news
Recognising the recent successes and achievements of the alumni community.
1970s
Peter Humphries (BA Physics 1970, DipEd Education 1971) has been awarded an honorary membership of the Association for Science Education (ASE).
Martin Rees (BA Economics 1972) has devoted 25 years to voluntary service as a ranger in Bannau Brycheiniog in Wales, on behalf of the National Trust.
1980s
Salah El Beialy (PhD Geology 1986) has been named Best Scientist of Earth Sciences at Mansoura University in Egypt, as per the World Scientists Rankings 2024.
1990s
Chris Chibnall’s (MA Theatre and Film 1995) original theatre comedy ‘One Last Push’ was Salisbury Playhouse’s first original production since the pandemic.
Dominic Carr (BA Economics and Politics 1994) has been appointed as Global Communications and Public Affairs Executive at Starbucks.
Katharine J Campbell-Pilling (LPC Legal Practice 1997, PG CERT Learning and Teaching 2008) has been shortlisted for the Law Teacher of the Year Award 2024.
2000s
Catherine McManus (BSc Biomedical Science 2000) has been awarded UK & Ireland Chair of the Year 2022 by Vistage UK.
Matheu Parr (MEng Electronic Engineering 2005 and MSc Advanced Control and Systems Engineering 2006) led the team that created the world’s fastest electric plane, achieving multiple world records.
Professor Gina M Higginbottom (PhD in Health and Related Research 2004) has been honoured with a fellowship from The Queen’s Nursing Institute (QNI).
Alexander Mills (BA Journalism Studies 2005), David Murphy (BA Journalism Studies 2005) and Adam Oxley (BA Journalism Studies 2005) are celebrating the 20th anniversary of their co-funded 5-a-side football team – one of the UK’s longestrunning of its kind.
Laura Winson (BA Sociology 2004) has been named one of the most quietly influential women in British fashion by Grazia magazine for her work with co-founded talent agency Zebedee.
Dr Phung Le (PhD Chemical Process Engineering 2008) has been honoured with the prestigious Science and Sustainability Award at the British Council Alumni Awards Vietnam.
Dr Yu Bai (BA Architecture 2005) has been named a finalist for the prestigious Social Action Award at the British Council Alumni Awards China.
Thomas Popple (BA Geography 2007) has founded Be Impactful, an independent advisory organisation focusing on climate, nature, and community impact.
Elizabeth Pearson (BMedSci Nursing Studies 2008) has been appointed joint Vice Chair of the Mary Seacole Trust, a nonprofit organisation dedicated to recognising individuals from ethnic communities who have made significant contributions to our society.
2010s
Finn Holroyd (BA History 2018) co-funded White Bicycle Ltd, which recently won the ‘Ones to Watch’ category in the Family Business of the Year Awards 2023.
Hollie Pearne-Webb MBE (BA Economics 2013, Hon LittD 2023) has qualified for the Paris Olympics 2024 as a member of Great Britain’s women’s Hockey team.
Miki G Ngwaneh (MA International Development 2013) has been appointed Co-Chair for the Diets and Food Systems Community of Practice at RCSHN.
Loice Natukunda (PhD Management and Organisational Behaviour 2016) has been honoured with the ‘Research Culture Impact through Researcher Development’ award at the Vitae International Research Development Conference 2023.
Sebastien Cross (BA Economics 2013) co-founded BeZero Carbon which has become one of the largest European carbon offset ratings companies.
Megan Hoyle (BEng Chemical Engineering 2016, MSc Environmental and Energy Engineering 2018) received the Rising Star award at the UK Packaging Awards 2023.
Sarah Manzie (BA Philosophy 2017) has presented a compelling TEDx Talk titled ‘Why youth homelessness thrives in silence’. Watch the talk here: www.youtube. com/watch?v=OBwE_1JZRJc
Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill (BSc Psychology 2007, Hon LittD 2010) has been honoured with the prestigious Paving The Way award at this year’s MOBO Awards, hosted in Sheffield.
Dr Nathan Walker (BSc Biomedical Science 2008, PhD Structural Engineering and Materials 2014) has been recognised as one of the top ten photographers in the UK and among the top hundred photographers globally in the This is Reportage 2023 ranking.
Dominic West (Hon LittD 2018) has been nominated at the Golden Globe Awards and Screen Actors Guild Awards for his portrayal of Prince Charles in the television drama series ‘The Crown’.
Dr Emily Rickman (MPhys Physics and Astrophysics 2016) has been honoured with the Science and Sustainability Award at the British Council Alumni Awards USA.
Dr Leonardo Bastos (PhD Probability and Statistics 2010) has been honoured with the prestigious Science and Sustainability Award at the British Council Alumni Awards Brazil.
Dr Abid Malik (PhD Medicine 2010) has been honoured with the prestigious Science and Sustainability Award at the British Council Alumni Awards Pakistan.
Bryony Page (BSc Biology 2015, Hon LittD 2023) has won her second individual trampoline world title at the Trampoline & Tumbling World Championships in Birmingham, the Senior Women’s Individual Trampoline European Championship, and qualified for the Paris Olympics 2024 for GB’s Trampoline Gymnastics team.
Dr Mininim Oseji (MPH Public Health 2010) has been named a finalist for the prestigious Science and Sustainability Award at the British Council Alumni Awards Nigeria.
Dr Dante Salvador (MPH European Public Health 2017) has been named a finalist for the prestigious Science and Sustainability Award at the British Council Alumni Awards Philippines.
Dr Dan Armooh (MPH Public Health 2014) has been named a finalist for the prestigious Business and Innovation Award at the British Council Alumni Awards Ghana.
Yixin Zhou (BA Accounting and Financial Management 2014) has founded Huanyu Energy, an organisation distributing solar equipment across Africa.
Prem Yugandhar Kadiyam Sundarasivarao (MSc Stem cell and regenerative medicine 2013) has been appointed Postdoctoral Researcher at the University NYU Langone Health in New York.
Dr Saima Eman (PhD Psychology 2018) has been appointed for the third time as a member of the Commonwealth Alumni Advisory Panel at the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK.
Gianni Romano (BA Accounting and Financial Management and Economics with Employment Experience 2017) has been named on the Forbes 30 Under 30 Europe for his innovative QR code traceability software through his business Lyfcycle and software Ettos.
David Wetherill (BSc Biological Chemistry 2012) has set a new world record by running 42.2 kilometres on crutches at this year’s Barcelona marathon, all while raising funds for type 1 diabetes research.
Continues overleaf >
2020s
Carlo Vidal Miranda (BA International Business Management 2019, MBA Business Administration 2023) has become the first Sheffield alumnus to earn a place on the University’s Dean List at both undergraduate and postgraduate level.
Dr Eleni Pashia (PhD Architecture 2021) has been named a finalist for the prestigious Culture and Creativity Award at the British Council Alumni Awards Cyprus.
Harry Robinson (BA Journalism Studies 2023) wrote, directed, and starred in ‘Mother’s Ruin: Unmasking the WMSCOG’. This investigative exposé short film has won awards at Oregon Film Festival, Texas Short Film Festival, and ITV News.
Joseph Kealy (BSc Economics with Employment Experience 2020) has been featured on BBC News for his financial tips and career advice shared through his popular TikTok account.
Joy Haizelden (BMedSci Health and Human Sciences 2020) has qualified for the Paris Paralympics 2024 as a member of Great Britain’s women’s wheelchair basketball team.
Honorary degrees
Honorary degrees are awarded to those who have given distinguished service or brought distinction to the University, the city of Sheffield or the region.
This year’s Alumni recipients are detailed below.
January 2024
Victoria Cox (BSc Mathematics with Study in Europe 2009, Hon DSc 2024) a statistician who during the Covid pandemic, provided much of the statistical modelling of the UK’s medical responses, informing decisions at the highest levels of government.
July 2024
Jenny Lay-Flurrie (BMus Music 1997, Hon DSc 2024) Chief Accessibility Officer at Microsoft, Jenny is a passionate campaigner for accessibility.
Alumni volunteer of the Year
Here are some of your fellow alumni who were recognised for their outstanding contributions to society in 2024.
Bicky Bhangu, OBE (MSc Eng Control Systems 2000, PhD Electrical Engineering 2004) was awarded the OBE in 2020 for service to international trade and strengthening partnership between Singapore and the UK.
Gavin Bryars (BA Philosophy 1964, Hon DMus 2024) one of the most important and influential British composers of the last halfcentury. His operas have been performed worldwide including by the Opéra de Lyon, the Opéra de Paris and the English National Opera. His commissions include the BBC Symphony Orchestra, Julian Lloyd Webber and the Netherlands National Ballet.
Dame Grand Cross of the Order of the British Empire
Professor Dame Carol M Black DBE (Honorary DSc 2006) recognised for her public service.
Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George Dr Rurik M Marsden, OBE (PhD Animal and Plant Sciences 2000) recognised for his services to International Development.
Commander of the Order of the British Empire
Professor Timothy J G Kendall (BMedSci 1981; MBCHB Medicine 1983, Hon MD 2022) recognised for his services to mental health care in England.
Officer of the Order of the British Empire
Duncan Edwards (BA Geography and Politics 1985) recognised for his services to the UK-US trade relations and to charity.
Dr Sabesan Sithamparanathan FREng (BEng Electronic Engineering (Communications) 2007) recognised for his services to Innovation Technology.
Howard Wilkinson (BEd Physical Education 1975) recognised for his services to Association Football and to charity.
Member of the Order of the British Empire
Edward Kay Kiu Chan (BEng Structural Engineering 2007) recognised for his services to the Chinese community in London.
British Empire Medal
Andrew C. Beevers (PGCert Leadership 2012) recognised for his services to Bell Ringing and to the community in Ecclesfield, South Yorkshire.
Knight Companion of the Order of the Garter
Air Chief Marshal the Lord Peach, GBE, KCB, ADC, DL (BA Geography, Economic and Social History 1977, Hon LittD 2007) recognised for his exemplary military service.
Barony of the United Kingdom for life
Lord James Jamieson, OBE (MEng Materials Process Engineering 1986) was created Baron Jamieson of Maulden in the County of Bedfordshire.
Officer of the Order of the British Empire
Rob Butler MP (BA French and Economics 1989) recognised for Political and Public Service as Parliamentary Private Secretary at FCDO.
Rajvinder (Binna)
Kandola OBE (MA Occupational Psychology 1981)
Binna was nominated by the Sheffield University Management School for his outstanding contribution in supporting masters students. Since 2012, his company Pearn Kandola has enabled students to gain experience of working on real company issues. In 2024, Binna also hosted a student visit to Pearn Kandola, where he set the students a challenge and provided them with feedback. This visit was the School’s first ever specialised careers visit to an occupational psychology consultancy practice, and it provided students with valuable insights into the range of jobs available to them. Binna’s gift of his time has had a clear impact, as articulated by Doreen Malavanu, MSc Work Psychology student: “The visit was the highlight of my masters programme. It helped to bridge classroom learning with practical, industry-specific challenges.”
“I had such a wonderful time when I studied at Sheffield that I am always looking to find ways of showing my appreciation in a very practical way.”
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