*Winner* - Alumnus of the Year 2012
Commander Sarah West of HM Royal Navy awarded top accolade
We have a winner
University of Hertfordshire alumnus, Sarah West, has been named Alumnus of the Year for 2012.
Sarah, who was awarded a First Class BSc (Hons) Mathematics degree in 1993, joined the Royal Navy in 1995 - two years after leaving the University.
In the 16 years since then, Sarah has served in a variety of HM ships and in various theatres. She has also recently been promoted to the rank of Commander.
In April 2012, Sarah took command of the Duke class Type 23 warship HMS Portland - the first woman in the Royal Navy to take command of a major warship.
The assessment sub-committee believes that Commander Sarah West RN sets a very inspirational example for her career, outstanding contributions and achievements in the Royal Navy for all University of Hertfordshire students, staff and alumni to follow.
Visit our Alumnus of the Year page for details of all the 2012 honourees, and previous winners.