union Awards


We are Brighton Students’ Union, here to make life better for every Brighton University student. As a student‑focused and student‑led organisation, we’re at the heart of campus life. We build community through our outlets and societies, amplify student voices, and offer essential wellbeing and academic support. University life is more than lectures; we’re your home away from home, helping you succeed, connect, and thrive.

Nominations

Nominations for our 2026 Union Awards are now open! This is your chance to recognise staff members and fellow students who have made a real difference to your experience at university. If someone has supported you, inspired you, or simply brightened your time here, nominate them now. Take a look at the categories below.

Inspirational and Motivational Teaching Award

Criteria: Recognises staff who inspire and motivate students through their teaching methods, fostering a love for learning and personal growth.

Example: A lecturer who consistently goes above and beyond to engage students, encouraging them to think critically and pursue excellence.

Outstanding Support Award

Criteria: Acknowledges staff members such as support staff or professional services who provide exceptional support to students.

Example: A member of estates or facilities staff who goes out their way to help a student, or an advisor who is always available to listen and offer guidance.

Enabling Excellent Equitable Student Experience Award

Criteria: A staff member who actively promotes equity, inclusion, and fairness. They ensure students have access to opportunities and support.

Example: A staff member who actively promotes inclusive initiatives and schemes, encouraging students from all backgrounds to engage and access opportunities.

Creating Community and Belonging Award

Criteria: A staff member who fosters a sense of community and belonging, creating spaces where students feel supported.

Example: A staff member who brings students together through activities and opportunities for students to focus on their wellbeing or building community.

Volunteer of the Year Award

Criteria:  A student who has made an outstanding contribution through their voluntary role, demonstrating commitment to making a positive impact within the university or BSU community.

Example: A volunteer mentor or ambassador who goes above and beyond to provide guidance and help others feel supported and included.

Society Event of the Year Award

Criteria: A society that has organised an exceptional event that has had a significant impact, attracted a wide audience, and achieved its objectives. 

Example: An event organised by a society that raised awareness about an important issue, featured engaging speakers or performers, and brought together students from diverse background

Society Committee Member of the Year Award

Criteria: A society committee member who goes above and beyond to demonstrate exceptional leadership and commitment to their society, contributing to the success and growth of the group.

Example:  A committee member who organises events, motivates their team, and creates engaging opportunities for students

New Society of the Year Award

Criteria:  A newly established society (created within the 2025/26 academic year) that has shown exceptional growth, engagement, and impact within its first year.

Example: A recently formed society that has successfully organised a series of events, attracted a diverse membership, and contributed positively to campus culture.

Society of the Year Award

Criteria: An outstanding society that has made a significant impact on campus life through its activities, events, and contributions to the community. 

Example: A society that has consistently organised high-quality events, fostered a sense of belonging among its members, and positively influenced campus culture.