Students' Union colleagues were among those celebrated at the University's Staff Recognition Awards and Long Service Celebration event on Tuesday 7 July, recognising outstanding contributions to the student experience, staff wellbeing and years of dedicated service.
The event, held in The Edge, brought together award recipients, nominees and colleagues from across the University community to celebrate the achievements and commitment of professional services and support staff. More than 125 nominations were received this year, with over 500 staff and students taking part in the awards process.
These awards highlight the incredible people behind The SU, who work every day to create the best possible experience for Bath students. We're so proud to see their passion, commitment and impact recognised by the University community.
Creating an outstanding welcome for new students
A highlight of the evening was recognition for the work behind Freshers' Week 2025, with Mike Dalton and Helen Webb receiving the Enhancing Student Experience Team Award.
Freshers' Week plays a vital role in helping students build friendships, discover opportunities and develop a sense of belonging from the moment they arrive at Bath. Mike and Helen were recognised for leading the most ambitious and inclusive Freshers' programme to date, delivering more than 160 events that welcomed over 5,200 students and generated almost 12,000 event check-ins.
Mike's leadership ensured the successful delivery of a complex programme spanning large-scale arena events, alcohol-free activities and new city-wide partnerships. Helen led the student-led delivery model, supporting event managers and 87 student captains while developing a communications approach that reached millions through digital channels before students even arrived on campus.
Together, their strategic, creative and inclusive approach created a welcoming and impactful experience, with student feedback reflecting a strong sense of community and belonging from day one.
Freshers' Week is often a student's first experience of The SU, and delivering a programme of this scale alongside students helps ensure new arrivals feel welcomed, supported and excited about becoming part of the Bath community. We're already looking forward to seeing what the team has planned for Freshers' Week 2026.
Championing wellbeing across The SU
The SU was also recognised for its commitment to staff wellbeing, with the SU Wellbeing Champions receiving the Supporting Colleagues Team Award.
Made up of Parnian Soltani, Gemma Rigby, Annette Goddard, Joe Rumford and Taibah Orpin, the group has made a significant impact since being established just 18 months ago.
The team has created a wide range of accessible wellbeing initiatives shaped directly by staff feedback, including activities, events and communications designed to promote connection and support. Through their work, they have encouraged open conversations about wellbeing and helped build a culture where colleagues feel valued, connected and able to access support when needed.
While this award recognises their impact on staff, it also reflects the importance of creating a positive workplace culture. When our staff feel supported, they are better able to deliver the high-quality services, opportunities and experiences that students rely on every day.
Celebrating long service
The event also provided an opportunity to celebrate colleagues reaching significant long-service milestones, recognising years of dedication and commitment to supporting students and the wider University community.
This year, three The SU colleagues were recognised for 25 years of service:
- Anna Boneham, Volunteering and Societies Manager
- Jo Dixon, Students' Union Sport Development Manager
- Charlie Slack, Director of Student Leadership & Support
Their combined years of service represent an extraordinary contribution to The SU and generations of Bath students. Through their commitment, expertise and leadership, they have helped shape countless student experiences, opportunities and achievements over the years.
Congratulations to all of this year's award winners, nominees and long-service recipients. We are incredibly proud of the passion, dedication and impact they bring to The SU and the University of Bath community every day.
For a full list of this year's award recipients and more information about the Staff Recognition Awards, read the University of Bath's article: Celebrating the Staff Recognition Awards 2026.