News

TV’s Debra Stephenson Hosts University Awards

0 207
Article by Lisa Burns and Neil Harrison

Debra Stephenson and Vice-Chancellor John Brooks present the
Outstanding Contribution Award to Rebecca Lawthom.
TV STAR DEBRA STEPHENSON HAS MADE a very welcome return appearance at her alma mater, to present the inaugural Manchester Metropolitan University Staff Awards.

The Bad Girls and Coronation Street actress and star of The Impressions Show treated the crowd, gathered in MMU’s Oxford Road Business School, to a masterclass in comedy and impersonation. She ‘introduced’ a host of well-known names, including: Miranda Hart, Julie Walters, Anne Robinson and her hilarious trademark Davina McCall, before the serious business of announcing the winners began.

Debra, co-hosting the event with MMU Vice-Chancellor, Professor John Brooks, said ahead of the awards:

“I have a lot of history with this place and a lot of fond memories of Manchester Metropolitan University. I always say to young, aspiring actors who ask me what to do: “Head up to Manchester! It’s the best place to be!”

Audience gathers to enjoy the TV star’s impressions.

The successful evening, which sought to recognise staff’s contributions to the university’s values, included the Vice-Chancellor’s Award for Outstanding Contribution, won by Rebecca Lawthom, plus many other categories, including Outstanding Teacher and Rising Star.

Upon picking up the Service Excellence award, Paul Walsh said, “It’s amazing to have won, I’m so pleased that somebody took the opportunity to nominate me, it’s lovely to be recognised for it. I’m really pleased.”

Similarly pleased was fellow winner, Edward Wastnidge, who received the Exceptional Contribution to the Student Experience award, saying, “It feels wonderful, it’s a real honour. This is very much a reward for the rest of my colleagues as well, who do the same job as me in the rest of the Humanities, Language and Social Science faculty. It’s Great!”

To round off proceedings, vice-chancellor Brooks thanked Debra Stephenson and praised each of the winners and nominees, hailing the event – the first of its kind – as hugely successful, before inviting those in attendance to a post-ceremony cocktail party at MMU’s newly opened School of Art building.   

For more information on the MMU Staff Awards and for full details of the winners please visit: http://www.mmu.ac.uk/staff/awards/


Lisa Burns studies History and English at MMU. When she’s not got her nose in a book, she loves having adventures in the great outdoors! Follow her on Twitter: @LittleRobin09

Neil Harrison is studying Social History at Manchester Metropolitan University. He is an aspiring journalist and a terrible guitar player. Read his blog LooseRiver and follow him on Twitter @LooseRiver

About the author / 

aAh!

aAh! Magazine is Manchester Metropolitan University's arts and culture magazine.

Leave a reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

More News Stories:

  • A Complete Unknown film review – An enigmatic portrayal of a musical luminary

    Featured image: Press A Complete Unknown is an evocative musical commentary and expertly crafted biopic following the life of Bob Dylan as he transitioned from acoustic to electric guitar. For what is both an intimate portrayal of genius and a harsh critique of character, both Timothée Chalamet and James Mangold hit the nail on the…

  • 5 tips for sustainable student living

    Featured illustration: Ruby Sharp 1. Mindful clothes shopping The fashion industry significantly contributes to overconsumption, with 92 million tonnes of clothing ending up in landfill each year. To be more sustainable, clothes consider buying and selling clothes on platforms like Vinted. These apps provide a great opportunity to make extra cash while keeping your clothes…

  • Love Story Movie Marathon: Top 10 films to watch this Valentine’s Day

    Featured image: Loe Moshkovska Valentine’s Day doesn’t need to break the bank. Grab your popcorn and blankets to enjoy a laid-back movie night. Whether you’re cozying up to a loved one or having a movie night for galantines, we have you covered with the best watches for this Valentine’s Day. These romantic movies are set…