This year, Edinburgh Global continued their streak of recognition at the University’s USG Awards, with individuals and teams winning in three categories. The awards highlight outstanding contributions from across the group, with staff nominating colleagues they feel embody the best of our institution – championing the care, creativity and determination which define our work. Whether the impact was big or small, public or behind the scenes, every entry showed the difference that people make when they support each other and do their best. Congratulations again to all our nominees, our shortlisted colleagues and our winners. I hope you felt proud to be recognised. These awards are one way we can show our appreciation and they remind us how much we value the contribution everyone makes. Leigh Chalmers Vice Principal and University Secretary Winners Collaborating for Success Award Edinburgh Global Communications & IT Teram and Education Beyond Borders This award recognises individuals who have worked together across boundaries, highlighting those who have brought diverse skills, perspectives and innovative thinking to achieve a common goal. This includes cross-departmental projects and initiatives that showcase the power of collaboration in overcoming challenges and achieving success.Two teams from Edinburgh Global, alongside others from across the University, created the ‘From Sanctuary to Community’ display to platform refugee voices, using art and storytelling to build understanding and belonging. It’s fantastic to receive the Collaborating for Success Award, it’s a cherry on the cake for what has been a thoroughly enjoyable and rewarding project. One that simply wouldn’t have been possible without the brilliant work of our Education Beyond Borders colleagues —Iona, Nadin, Chioma, Sarah and Josie, and others around the University committed to Sanctuary work. We’d long hoped to create an exhibition showcasing this work and sharing the stories of displaced people and it genuinely took a village to make it happen. Starting with a conversation between Sarah Hoey and the Library’s EDI team — a connection that opened the door to securing the exhibition space. The support, collaboration and enthusiasm we received from the Library and University Collections team were integral - so this award is shared with Laura Beattie, Nel Coleman and Ross MacGregor. Working with them made the process so enjoyable too. Everyone in the Comms and IT team played a part, including Kirstin Sonne, whose internship with us brought invaluable archival research to include. Special shout out though to Nic and Lorna who made the artwork, print and media look and sound so impactful. Kirsty Gillies Head of Communications & IT, Edinburgh Global From Sanctuary to Community Changemaker Award Ian McDougall, Michelle Beagan and Michael Maclennan This award is dedicated to an individual or team that has driven significant positive change within the organisation. This could be through implementing innovative solutions, improving processes or leading transformational projects that have a demonstrable impact. This team of colleagues coordinated the donation of vital IT equipment to the University of Kyiv after the destruction of their computer centre. Our partnership with Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv (KNU) Outstanding Student Experience Award Inga Ackermann This category recognises individuals or teams who make significant contributions to enhancing the student experience at USG. It celebrates innovative approaches and exceptional commitment to student welfare, resulting in noticeable improvements in student engagement, satisfaction or performance. Inga won in recognition of her work supporting more than 230 online students through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, many of whom are refugees, from displaced backgrounds, students with disabilities or student parents. I am deeply grateful for this recognition. I am inspired every day by our Scholars, on campus and online, by their ambition, compassion, respect for one another, and their commitment to their communities. Going above and beyond feels natural when you can see the difference it makes in a student’s journey. This award is a reminder of how important it is that every student, including our online distance students, receives an outstanding experience. Nothing we achieve at the University is done alone. I am fortunate to stand alongside colleagues who support, guide, inspire, and challenge me. Inga Ackermann Online Learning and Leadership Coordinator Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Shortlisted nominees Alongside our category winners, several Edinburgh Global staff secured their place on category shortlists, and many more were nominated for recognition by their peers - strong evidence that our commitment to delivering excellence in our work is appreciated, respected and acknowledged by the people we work with every day. Unsung Hero Award Vicky Duckworth Exceptional Individual Service Vicky Duckworth Collaborating for Success Award Helen McMillan Megan Douglas USG Role Model Award Becca Lloyd Outstanding Student Experience Award Michael Maclennan Publication date 17 Nov, 2025
