University of Hertfordshire members shortlisted for four University Alliance Awards
Current and former members of the University of Hertfordshire have been shortlisted in four categories at this year’s University Alliance Awards 2026 – recognising the outstanding impact of staff across teaching, research and professional services.
Held annually by University Alliance – the body representing the UK’s leading professional and technical universities – the awards celebrate excellence in education, research and industry collaboration.
Among those recognised this year is the Black Women Research Collective (BWRC) team, shortlisted in the Heroes Award category for their work tackling inequality in research and supporting progression for Black women across the University community.
Launched in January 2026 by Dr Saadye Ali, Dr Vida Douglas, Dr Sharon Mutare and Dr Kathlyn Wilson, the Collective is the first initiative of its kind in UK higher education. Funded by the University’s Enhancing Research Culture Fund, it provides a dedicated space for Black women across academic, professional, technical and research roles to connect, share experiences and support one another’s development.
Judges praised the Collective for its role in driving “meaningful institutional change by creating a pioneering support network that strengthens progression, wellbeing and representation of Black women in academia while advancing equality across the university.”
The University’s partnership with Watford FC has also been shortlisted for the Industry Partnerships Award, recognised as a collaboration that brings learning to life through live projects, industry challenges and employment pathways that enhance skills, support innovation and improve graduate outcomes.
Former Herts PhD student and Visiting Lecturer Dr Kumar Shantanu Prasad, now at Regent College London, has been shortlisted for the Doctoral Training Alliance (DTA) Alumni Award, recognising his interdisciplinary research, mentorship and leadership in engineering innovation.
In addition, former Secretary and Registrar Sharon Harrison-Barker, who retired last month after 25 years of service, has been shortlisted for the Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of her exceptional leadership in governance and her lasting contribution to a student-centred University.
Professor Anthony Woodman, Vice-Chancellor at the University of Hertfordshire, said:
“I’m incredibly proud to see colleagues and former colleagues recognised at a national level through the University Alliance Awards. These nominations reflect the depth of talent, dedication and impact across our community – from pioneering work to tackle inequality in research, to innovative partnerships and outstanding professional service. Together, they demonstrate the vital role Herts plays in shaping a more inclusive, collaborative and forward-thinking future for higher education.”
Winners will be announced at the Alliance Awards red carpet event in September this year.
Read the full shortlist for the Alliance Awards 2026.
Picture caption: The Black Women Research Collective team and allies at their launch event in January. The team’s initiative has been shortlisted for the University Alliance Heroes Award.