York shortlisted for University of the Year and Most Innovative Teacher of the Year Awards

Posted on Thursday 6 September 2018

The Department of Chemistry’s Dr Glenn Hurst has also been shortlisted for Most Innovative Teacher of the Year in the awards, which are known as the ‘Oscars of higher education’.

The University of the Year category celebrates examples of exceptional performance through bold, imaginative and innovative initiatives.

The nomination recognises achievements with regard to creating an empowered working environment to enable staff and students to achieve their full potential; it also takes account of work to:

• Deliver innovative teaching, a wide range of extra-curricular activities, and programmes co-designed with employers to prepare students to compete in globally competitive labour markets
• Widen access to higher education and support progression through philanthropy
• Offer stimulating public engagement programmes, including the York Festival of Ideas, to engage diverse audiences to understand the value and importance of higher education

Most Innovative Teacher of the Year

Dr Glenn Hurst from the University's Department of Chemistry is also shortlisted for Most Innovative Teacher of the Year, for his use of social media to enhance student engagement, understanding and communication.

Dr Hurst said: “I would like to dedicate this nomination to the marvellous students at York together with my inspirational and supportive colleagues. It is a great privilege to work with so many talented students and to see them reach their potential.”

Head of the Department of Chemistry, Professor Duncan Bruce, said: “Here in the Department we pride ourselves in providing a top quality teaching and learning environment – the dedication and innovation of our talented academic staff, as exemplified by Glenn, is crucial in allowing us to achieve this.”

“A significant achievement”

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Koen Lamberts, said: “This nomination recognises the innovation, enthusiasm and dedication of our staff and students.

“Innovation is key to our success and the shortlisted initiatives are powerful examples of the ways that we continue to embody the University’s founding principles of excellence, equality and opportunity for all.”

Times Higher Education editor John Gill said: “It’s a significant achievement to make this shortlist, and we look forward to honouring all the finalists at the Grosvenor in November."

The winners of the Times Higher Education Awards will be announced at the Grosvenor House Hotel on Thursday 29 November.