Students’ Association awards students and staff in virtual ceremony
Representatives of the Highlands and Islands Students Association at Perth College UHI hosted their annual OBI Awards on Friday 28 May - bringing students and staff together online despite ongoing challenges due to COVID-19.
The HISA Perth team transitioned the celebration online for the first time in 2020, to ensure the winning staff and students were given the recognition they deserved throughout the pandemic. An integral aspect of the Perth College UHI calendar, the OBI Awards acknowledge the Outstanding, Best and Inspiring staff and students, who dedicate their time to making the college more diverse and inclusive for all.
The awards allowed students to nominate in nine different categories from ‘Most Inspiring Lecturer’ to ‘Best Student Event’, and entries were judged by a panel consisting of staff, students, and student officers from Perth College UHI.
Commenting on the OBI Awards, HISA Perth President, Alex Wilson, said: "Despite the challenges both staff and students have experienced, we were overjoyed to see the number and quality of nominations we received this year and how much our college community has supported each other during these difficult times.
“We were keen to replicate the face to face awards ceremony we would normally have in an online setting, so we're pleased that some of the nominees were able to make it along and give their thanks. Our biggest thanks go to those who took the time to submit a nomination form - this year more than ever it has meant a lot to those who received them."
Dr Margaret Cook, Perth College UHI Principal, added: “The past year hasn’t been easy for our staff and students, but the OBI Awards shine a light on the very best of college life. There were many outstanding testimonials describing the excellent work of our staff and students that contribute to the student experience in Perth, and we are so appreciative of those that have helped us to foster a supportive college community throughout the challenges of the pandemic. We congratulate all those who were awarded an OBI, recognising the best, most inspiring and outstanding people within Perth College UHI.”
This years winners were:
Most Inspiring Lecturer: Kirstie Burn and Chris Heaney
Best Personal Academic Tutor: Scott Innes and Tracy MacGregor
Best Class Representative: Sarah Melvin and Lawrence Mullen
Most Inspiring Student: Debora Lato and Elliot Ralston
Outstanding Feedback: James Alexander and Laura Kelly
Outstanding Support Award (Non-teaching): David Gourlay
Best Research or Dissertation Supervisor: Nick Green
Best Club or Society: ESOL Book Club
Best Student Event: The Christmas High Tea organised by Professional Cookery
Best Overall Student: Winfrida Mwongela and Elliot Ralston