Celebrating our people: Student and Staff Awards 2026

Released: 07.05.26

Plymouth Marjon University’s Student and Staff Awards 2026 provide an opportunity to recognise the people who bring the University’s strategy, values, and social purpose to life.

Bringing together students and colleagues from across the institution, the awards celebrated excellence across teaching, learning, community engagement and professional practice. Recognition focused not only on outcomes, but on the behaviours, commitment and values that underpin Marjon’s distinctive approach to education and civic responsibility.

The awards highlighted contributions across a wide range of areas, including social purpose in action, community engagement, equity and inclusion, academic excellence and ambition. Collectively, the nominations demonstrated how Marjon’s values are embedded across the University and reflected in everyday practice.

Vice‑Chancellor Professor Claire Taylor said: “Reading through the nominations and celebrating together exemplifies the University’s strong sense of community, our shared commitment to social purpose, and our belief that people matter.

“Every year it’s a joy to learn about the achievements of our students, both within their studies and through their impact beyond the University - Marjon’s values have shone through in the many nominations I have had the pleasure to review. Staff nominations highlighted individuals who consistently go beyond their defined roles – supporting local communities, leading initiatives, and creating opportunities for others. Their professionalism, commitment and community focus make a lasting impact both within the University and across the city and I feel incredibly proud to share the celebrations with everyone this evening.”

Nominations for the Equity and Inclusion award recognised staff who take a purposeful and proactive approach to fostering inclusive environments. Through inclusive teaching practices, cross‑team collaboration and values‑led leadership, these colleagues help ensure that students and staff feel respected, supported, and able to succeed. This work reinforces Marjon’s strategic commitment to equity, belonging, and a positive learning culture.

The Community Engagement award further demonstrated the University’s strong connection to place. Student nominations reflected this same commitment, recognising individuals who support young people in the local community by building trusted relationships and providing consistent, compassionate support. Their work reflects Marjon’s emphasis on civic engagement and real‑world impact.

Academic achievement was also celebrated. The Postgraduate Excellence Award celebrated a student who balances academic success with paid work and personal wellbeing, reflecting a supportive culture that enables students to thrive sustainably.

The Ambition Award highlighted the importance of belonging early in the student journey, with a first‑year student describing their nomination as confirmation that they had found the right course, the right place and a renewed sense of direction. They said: “Being nominated was a moment of affirmation. As a first‑year student, it confirmed that I’ve found the right course and the right place. After a long period of uncertainty, I now feel confident about my direction and excited about what lies ahead.”

Students and staff were recognised side by side throughout the evening, reflecting a culture of partnership and shared purpose. As Plymouth Marjon University continues its mission to end inequity, the awards reinforce a clear message: excellence, inclusion, and community are central to being a part of team Marjon.

Student winners

• Outstanding Academic Achievement Award – Izzy Spence
• Undergraduate Research Excellence Award – Amy Blaylock
• Postgraduate Excellence Award - Ania Jackowska
• Equity and Inclusion Ambassador Award - Taylor Simmonds
• Community Engagement Award - Molly Bray
• Humanity Award: For exceptional care and compassion towards others - Katrina Woods
• Ambition Award: For demonstrating outstanding drive and achievement - Ellie Williams
• Independence Award: For exemplary leadership and self-reliance - Isabelle Bluett

Staff winners

• People Development Award - Marjon Academy of Learning & Teaching (MALT) Team
  People Development Award - Lee Ballard
• Digital Innovation Award - Ben Jane
• Digital Innovation Award - Ian Stonebridge
• Research Mentorship Award - Matthew Ellis
• Research Mentorship Award – Tommy Bright
• Community Engagement Award - Stuart Watson
• Sustainability Champion Award - Nicola Vernall
• Equity and Inclusion Ambassador Award - Lynda Tout
• Equity and Inclusion Ambassador Award - Speech & Language Therapy (SLT) Team
• Humanity Award: For outstanding support and care for students and/or colleagues - Kerry Kellaway
• Humanity Award: For outstanding support and care for students and/or colleagues - Rachel Daykin
• Humanity Award: For outstanding support and care for students and/or colleagues - Dave Moore
• Ambition Award: For exceptional contributions to support Marjon's growth and success - Ben Anniss
• Ambition Award: For exceptional contributions to support Marjon's growth and success - Peter Kay
• Curiosity Award: For pioneering research or innovative practices - Tracy Hayes
• Independence Award: For fostering student and staff autonomy and critical thinking - Thomas Nicholls

Student Union winners

• Outstanding Supervisor – MarkAndrew Dearden
• Innovation - Kate Massey-Chase
• A'care' demic - Ben Moreland
• Lecturer of the Year – Leah Phillips
• Department of the Year – The Welcome Desk Team
• Department of the Year – Digital & IT Services
• Inspiration - Scott Fisher
• Heart of the University - Elizabeth Staples