After a tough decision-making process, the Alumni Volunteers of the Year for 2024 have been announced. Staff, students and fellow alumni all came forward to nominate alumni volunteers involved in an array of projects both in the UK and internationally. The judging panel, made up of representatives of all the above groups, are delighted to announce this year’s winners.
Debbie Hill Award for the Exceptional Support of Students
The 2024 winner is Mohammad Ali Ahsan (MSc International Management, 2004) for his outstanding student support over the past 12 years. Mohammad has supported University of Exeter student recruitment fairs and co-hosted alumni events. He has also been a Country Contact for Saudi Arabia and a member of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region alumni committee, alongside being part of the AskAnAlum outreach programme.
David Watson, Assistant Director – Supporter Engagement, said:
“We’re very grateful for all of the advice Mohammad has so generously given in the past 12 years to the University of Exeter through his volunteering and how he continues to share his time with our alumni and students. His unwavering availability, kindness, and willingness to offer guidance has been a real asset to the Exeter community. The panel were highly impressed by the passion he brings to supporting our student recruitment and hosting alumni events.”
Mohammad said: “I am deeply honoured to receive the Debbie Hill Award. As 2024 marks the 20th anniversary of my graduation, the memories of my exciting university experience remain vivid. I believe it is our duty, as successful alumni across the globe, to support our community and, more importantly, to share our experiences with prospective students for them to achieve a perfect blend of academic and personal growth. Let’s unite as proud alumni and continue to contribute in any way we can, as we owe it to our university.”
Congratulations to the runners up: Sam Ellis (MA English Studies, 2010), Jessica Whittick (LLB Law (European), 2017, and LLM Law, 2018) and Rob Walker (English and Drama, 1997).
Nicholas Bull Award for the Exceptional Support of the Alumni Community
2024’s Nicholas Bull Award winner is Holly Allday (Mining Engineering, 2007) for her key volunteering role within the Camborne School of Mines (CSM) Association, a global network which brings together CSM alumni worldwide through frequent activities and events including social events and professional themed activities. Holly organises events for alumni, including the annual CSM Gala Dinner. Holly has shown great enthusiasm promoting Exeter opportunities such as career mentoring of our current students by experienced CSM alumni mentors, and relevant global events, to the CSM alumni network.
David Watson, Assistant Director – Supporter Engagement, said:
“In her volunteering, Holly has been exceptional in offering her time, effort and skills so generously over several years. Holly has shown great enthusiasm supporting the CSM alumni and students, as well as broadening CSM Association engagement with other University activities. The panel were really impressed by the passion that she clearly brings to supporting the CSM Association – and the alumni team are very grateful for her continued support.”
Holly said: “Receiving the 2024 Nicholas Bull award is an incredible honour. I’m proud to be part of the Camborne School of Mines global community, which continues to transform the resources sector, and deeply grateful for the opportunity to give back through the CSM Association and Alumni Australia. Together, we will uphold our proud legacy and inspire future generations of industry leaders!”
Congratulations to the runners up: George Pakos (MSc International Management, 2004) and Jeremy Budd (Geography, 1985).
The awards are named in honour of two long-standing alumni volunteers, formally recognising the commitment and support that they have given the University over many years. For more information visit the website.