More than 300 community leaders and Police staff gathered at the awards night saying 'thank you' to the people who help keep our communities safe.

The University’s Assistant Director of Student Experience and Head of Student Support, Ruki Heritage was awarded the Educational Ambassador Award, with the following colleagues also receiving recognition for their dedication and commitment to supporting the communities of Bedfordshire and Bedfordshire Police:

• Sarah Thompson - Student Engagement Advisor
• Jon Stanley - Senior Engagement Advisor
• Rhoni Ikhide - Operations Manager (Securitas)
• Jenny Jenkin - Registrar
• Tara Alade - Beds SU President
• Cass Howes - Chaplain - Bedford campus
• Andrew Goodman - Chaplain - Luton campus

Ruki said: “Working with Bedfordshire Police has proved an invaluable partnership for the University and also for the Police services. Students have received helpful and practical advice around personal safety, careers opportunities and also crime prevention.

“I was really proud to receive this award, not only personally, but also on behalf of the University. The everyday work we carry out is based around trust, cooperation and support. Only with a team of dedicated professionals can we continue to deliver a safe and a more welcoming learning environment for our staff, visitors and students.”