Oxford students honoured for their volunteer work

Six Oxford University students have received Vice-Chancellor's Civic Awards in recognition of their exceptional volunteer work in the community and the wider world.

The awards recognise students who have demonstrated outstanding achievement in and commitment to volunteering, highlighting the positive impact of Oxford students locally, nationally and internationally.

This year's winners are Tatiana Cutts, Neil Howard, Elise Klein, Joshua Oware, Abi Sriharan and Helen Willis.

They received their awards at the Encaenia Rhodes House lunch hosted by the Vice-Chancellor.

Professor Andrew Hamilton, Vice-Chancellor of the University, said: 'It is important that Oxford continues its vital partnership with the community and encourages student volunteering.

'As a world-leading institution, Oxford should expect to make a major impact on the world beyond its main achievements in teaching and research.

'Recognising students who show a commitment to improving the quality of life for others will help to promote active citizenship in the local community and the wider world.'

Tatiana Cutts, a law graduate student at Keble College, has worked extensively around mental health and co-founded the Oxford University Student Union's 'Mind Your Head' campaign.

Neil Howard, a development studies graduate student at St Hilda's College, has been heavily involved in democratising access to education. Among his projects is the People’s Political Economy network, which aims to bridge town-gown divides.

Elise Klein, a development studies graduate student at St Antony's College, founded the Mali Initiative, an NGO that works to assist communities with sustainable development.

Joshua Oware, a geography undergraduate at Jesus College, has been heavily involved in educational empowerment, fair access and opportunity initiatives specifically related to issues of race equality.

Abi Sriharan, an evidence-based health care graduate student at Kellogg College, is one of the founding directors of the International Pediatric Emergency Medicine Elective, which teaches medical students how to engage in cross-border projects in conflict regions.

Helen Willis, a physiology and psychology undergraduate at St John's College, has worked tirelessly for several years to increase awareness of cochlear implantation issues and motivate young deaf people to aim higher.

Nominations for the Vice-Chancellor's Civic Awards are made through the website of Oxford Hub, the organisation responsible for connecting the University's students with charitable causes.

Adam Grodecki, co-founder and chairman of Oxford Hub, said: 'Oxford students have a reputation for excelling at activities beyond their academic studies, such as sport and music, which is partly because the University recognises and supports these pursuits.

'Civic engagement and volunteering are equally important, which is why I am delighted the Vice-Chancellor is recognising the efforts and achievements of exceptional Oxford students engaged in making a positive difference in the community.'