Both Newcastle universities shortlisted for uni of the year award

Newcastle University and Northumbria University have both been nominated for the Times Higher Education (THE) University of the Year Award 2022.

Nominated along with four other universities across the country, the award recognises exceptional performance, as well as bold, imaginative and innovative initiatives that have advanced a Higher Education institution’s reputation during the academic year 2020/21.

This marks the first time two institutions from the same city – outside of London – to be nominated for the award in the same year, firmly securing the city as a northern powerhouse of world-leading research and education.

For Northumbria University it marks a transformation to become the UK’s first research-intensive modern university.

The strategy, which began in 2008, embeds quality research at the centre of everything that the university does, has a clear social mobility mission, and is aligned to business and the demands of the regional and local economy.

At Northumbria, 40% of undergraduates are from traditionally low-participation backgrounds.

While Newcastle University has been acknowledged for its Environmental Justice and Social Justice values, in response to students calling for their university to be at the forefront of addressing the climate emergency.

The university has been recognised for its sustainable development and climate research, and has embedded these core values throughout its research, education, operations and work with communities across the globe.

Working together with students, colleagues, alumni, local and global partners, Newcastle University has established new student scholarships, leadership programmes and teaching modules.

It was ranked first in the UK – eighth in the world – for sustainable development in The Times Higher Education Impact Rankings

Together, the cities of Newcastle and Durham now constitute a Northern Research Powerhouse with the largest concentration of researchers outside London, important for the Northeast economy, for inward investment, for influencing policy and for levelling up.

Professor Andy Long, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Northumbria University, said: “To have both our institutions from the same city nominated for such a prestigious and internationally-recognised award is a significant and remarkable achievement.

“It sends a powerful message about the positive impact we are making together – through our collective research to drive innovation and sustainable growth, our education to help young people from all backgrounds achieve their full potential, and in our civic role as anchor institutions within the city.”

Professor Chris Day, Vice-Chancellor and President, Newcastle University, said: “For both universities to be shortlisted for the THE University of the Year award is an outstanding achievement, and reflects the passion, talent and ambition of both students and colleagues across our two institutions.

“Although we have each been shortlisted in our own right and for different reasons, there is no doubt that each of us owes some of that success to the other, as well as to our partners here in the City.

“It is only by working together – sharing ideas, listening to our communities and responding to the needs of society – that Universities like ours can drive positive, lasting change.”

Leader of Newcastle City Council, Cllr Nick Kemp said: “We are delighted that Newcastle’s two outstanding universities have been recognised for their achievements. They are a vital part of the fabric of our great city, and nomination is testament to the drive and ambition that has made Newcastle a centre of excellence.

“As anchor institutions, our universities are key partners in making Newcastle a fair and inclusive place where everyone can thrive. To be the first city outside London to have two institutions nominated makes us very proud, and not surprised – our universities are leading the way by working together to shape how we live.”

The winner of the University of the Year will be revealed at the Times Higher Education (THE) Awards ceremony in London on 17th November 2022.

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