Change to Horizon Fund Impact Report by Staffordshire University

TRANSFORM THE LIVES OF THOUSANDS OF STUDENTS

HORIZON FUND

IMPACT REPORT 2022-23

Giving with IMPACT

Together, we are the difference…

At Staffordshire University we are immensely proud of our reputation as the Connected University. We work to support our students and connect them with aspirational opportunities.

However, increasing numbers of students at Staffordshire University face financial challenges caused by the rising cost of living – including increased food prices, fuel for homes and travel, study resources and equipment.

So there has never been a more important time to recognise the economic challenges faced by many of our students – 28.8 per cent of whom are in the highest categories for deprivation.

That is why our Development Board pledges to continue working with key business and education partners, charitable foundations and our influential alumni and Honorary Doctors’ communities, to fund life-changing opportunity awards, bursaries and scholarships through our University charity –Horizon Fund.

We know from our graduates that even small contributions can make a significant difference.

Since the Horizon Fund was launched in 2013 more than 2,000 students have, to date, benefitted from and been supported by financial awards totalling more than £3.5 million.

This is a huge achievement – creating impact across the University and in wider society as our graduate’s progress. On behalf of our students and everyone at the University, we’d like to extend our gratitude to our individual donors, Foundations and Trusts and to everyone who has contributed and continues to do so.

This publication presents some of this important work and demonstrates the impact it has on students and wider society.

It is also a rallying cry for more people to become regular donors, become involved in fundraising for the Horizon Fund and support our talented student cohorts with their time, talent and treasure.

Join us. Together, we are the difference.

Martin Tideswell Director of Communities and Commercial Engagement

Welcome to the beating heart of our impact

Your support is the catalyst that transforms raw statistics into meaningful change.

In the following pages, we translate our collective efforts into tangible figures. As you navigate through these visual representations of progress, remember that each data point is a milestone, each trend a story of resilience, and each achievement a testament to the power of collaboration.

Together, we are not just meeting targets; we are sculpting a future where impact is measured not only in numbers but in the profound and lasting difference made in the lives of those we support.

CHALLENGES OUR STUDENTS FACE:

Of 827 applications for bursaries, students highlighted these financial needs***

Of our students have a declared disability

Of our students are from the bottom two deciles of the deprivation category*

Of our students are classified as ‘mature’ on entry and may require support with dependents

Of our students are from areas with the lowest participation in education and may be the first in their family to attend University

56.68% of our Full-time students commute to University

Stoke-on-Trent is the 12th lowest in the country for social mobility

Nearly two thirds of all students have gone without food when they were hungry**

Almost all students are worried about the cost of living.**

Since it’s inception the Horizon Fund has helped to transport students across the world to take on study visits, volunteering, key employment opportunities, and life changing experiences!

COUNTRIES VISITED HAVE INCLUDED:

68% of 2,465 registered users on the Staffs Alumni Connected Community are willing to help and give back!

Our alumni can be found across the globe in 152 countries!

Over 64,000 alumni and growing receive the alumni newsletter

363 alumni have returned to the University to mentor the next cohort of graduates and current students • America

Canada

Africa

Vietnam

Over 42,000 Reach for our Horizon Fund and Alumni Instagram and Facebook

channels

Donors who make a difference

We are so proud and thankful to our Staffordshire University community of alumni, staff, students and supporters who gift their time, talent and treasure to the Horizon Fund. Without their support, we wouldn’t be able to offer our students life-changing and career-enhancing opportunities and help them through difficult times.

Whether that be a donation of £50 to fund a student nurse’s shoes, £2,000 to cover study and living essentials for a first-year student, or an alumni giving a guest lecture about their industry or career journey, it has a huge impact. All donations are valuable and contribute to the success of our students through their time at university and finding their dream career.

This is why our donors choose to lend their support…

Danny Smith

Danny Smith is living proof that a helping hand can make a huge difference to students facing financial pressures. It’s why he’s now determined to be there for others in need.

Money was so tight when he was studying Law at Staffordshire University that he couldn’t afford student accommodation and had to move back home to Walsall. But through a European hardship grant, he was able to buy a car for his daily commute.

Danny graduated in 2004 and is now a Solicitor-Advocate and Equity Partner with Shropshire-based PCB Solicitors. He became the first alumnus to help fundraise for students and has continued to support the Horizon Fund. He also sits on the University’s Development Board since inception.

Danny said: “Even if you give a little bit, that little bit adds up to a big collaboration which makes a massive difference.”

“I had that step up and it’s only right that you put back what you took out. I hope that my contribution will help to remove barriers for anyone who is thinking of giving up.”

See Danny’s full story here

Inspired Film and Video

A film company founded by Staffordshire University graduates is now supporting the next generation of aspiring moviemakers.

Inspired Film and Video created the Filmmaker Fund six years ago to offer bursaries to talented students. The scheme is overseen by the Horizon Fund.

For the 2023 awards, Film Production students were asked to pitch their film ideas to the company’s Creative Director Ryan Lloyd. Three winners each received £250 towards creating their final-year projects, with the overall best film getting a further £250 to help with distribution.

Around 80% of Inspired Film and Video’s employees are Staffordshire University graduates. The business, which was launched through the Fellowship Enterprise Scheme in 2006, also supports students in other ways.

Its staff have been involved in mentoring and have also acted as judges for our annual showcase of students’ final-year projects, GradEX.

Simon Clarke

Since 2015 the Clarke Family Trust has donated £81,000 to the Horizon Fund to support Opportunity Awards.

The support from the Clarke Family Trust has helped to transform the lives of over 253 students.

The Clarke Family Trustee, Simon Clarke, is Executive Chairman of Dunstall Holdings Ltd, has served as the High Sheriff of Staffordshire in 2012 and is a Deputy Lieutenant of Staffordshire. Simon is also an Honorary Doctor of Staffordshire University.

Simon chose to support the University for two main reasons.

1. He is from Staffordshire and wants the County to attract the best talent to the businesses.

2. Investment in the University infrastructure is investment in Stoke on Trent, enhancing the city and creating jobs.

Staffordshire University has an admirable track record of employability for students entering industry. The fundamental aim is for the University to produce well educated and prepared students ready to enter the workplace as rounded individuals able to excel in their chosen career.

“We

want to help students realise their ambitions and hope that the injection of these bursaries will enable the winning students to do something that they wouldn’t otherwise be able to do.”

“As a donor of money, time or both, the impact you have on a student and the University changes people’s lives for the better. Creating life altering opportunities for its beneficiaries, giving them the best possible start to their careers in a range of exciting industries.”

Ashwin Kagdadia

Ashwin Kagdadia’s father came from a humble background in India and always believed in the power of education. But Govindji Madhavji Kagdadia was forced to drop out of school to help with a family business.

“This saddened him greatly,” said Ashwin. “Later in life, he excelled as a goldsmith and crafts person, but he always wondered what he could have achieved if he had been allowed to progress in education.”

Ashwin lived out his dad’s dream as the first member of the family to complete a degree. He graduated from Loughborough University in 1983 after studying Economics and became a businessman and property developer.

After investing in a student flat, he created the Ashwin Kagdadia Scholarship with Staffordshire University. The scheme now provides three-year scholarships of between £500 and £1,500-a-year to help high-achieving students from lower income households.

As well as helping students achieve success, it’s a fitting legacy for his father.

“The flat I invested in is non-profit making. All the income is redistributed via my scholarship to students in financial hardship.”

Andrew Crisford and Fred Forshaw

Two friends who met on the same course in 1966 are now giving back to the latest generation of students through a charitable foundation.

Andrew Crisford and Fred Forshaw took the UK’s first ever Computer Science degree, studying at the forerunner of today’s Staffordshire University.

Fred went on to work in computing and ran his own consultancy for 20 years. Andrew spent two years working in computer-aided ship design for the Navy before following his passion for restoring antique clocks and watches.

The pair reconnected after retiring and are now trustees of the ACH Crisford Charitable Foundation, which was founded by Andrew and his family.

The foundation has provided bursaries to students at Staffordshire University London, sponsors our GradEX showcase and offers prize money for competitions. Over a three-year period, it has awarded £15,000 in financial support to students.

Andrew said: “It is incredibly important for me to encourage people to take up education to improve their lives and opportunities.”

Fred – who described their studies at Staffordshire as “top notch” – said they were both proud of the foundation’s work.

Fred Forshaw

Andrew Crisford

Sir David Bean

When former Staffordshire University governor Dr Ruth Thompson left a legacy gift, her husband was determined to ensure it made a lasting difference to aspiring teachers.

The generous donation led to two schemes: the Dr Ruth Thompson Global Teaching Scholarship and the Dr Ruth Thompson Scholarship for the Teachers of Tomorrow.

Sir David Bean, a Court of Appeal Judge whose legal career spans almost half a century, has now helped to shape these scholarships at Staffordshire University. It’s a fitting tribute to his wife, who also served as Director-General for Higher Education in England.

The awards have encouraged people across Staffordshire to train as teachers and have promoted research into global education practices. Several scholars attended a research conference in the US on the back of the work.

In recognition of his distinguished work, Sir David was awarded an honorary degree from Staffordshire University in 2022.

“All of them are on the way to becoming outstanding teachers and I am sure that the conference, added to what they have learned at Staffordshire, will widen their horizons and help with their research.”

Denise Coates CBE

As one of Britain’s most successful businesswomen, Denise Coates CBE has helped hundreds of students achieve their ambitions.

Through her generous donations, they’ve had access to a bursary programme which supports high-achieving students from low-income backgrounds across the region.

To date, more than 800 students have benefited and the impact has been phenomenal. They’ve been able to spend up to £2,000 to relieve financial pressures and help fund trips, equipment or other essential items during their studies.

The Stoke-on-Trent based charity is the longest standing major donor to the Horizon Fund. Denise and other members of her family remain trustees to this day.

The Denise Coates Foundation has supported a wide range of projects locally, including many linked to improving education opportunities.

In recognition of her work in championing the city and her entrepreneurial vision, Denise was awarded an honorary degree by Staffordshire University in 2012. She also received a CBE for her services to the community and business.

The bet365 CEO established the Denise Coates Foundation in 2012, which has contributed more than £1 million to Staffordshire University’s Horizon Fund.

Read more and donate to our Horizon Fund at

Staff who give

Jenny Amphlett

If every member of staff at Staffordshire University donated the price of a coffee each month, it could generate at least £43,000-a-year for student bursaries.

That’s the message Jenny Amphlett is keen to get across after signing up to a salary sacrifice scheme. Every month, before her pay is taxed, £2 automatically goes towards the Horizon Fund.

People can choose how much they want to give and it all adds up. Jenny, the University’s Stakeholder and Commercial Engagement Manager, said: “£43,000 is a really significant amount. It could mean giving a £1,000 bursary to 43 students.

“A lot of people aren’t aware they could be doing this. They aren’t aware of the impact it could have on students.”

“Sometimes,

it’s to help fund work trips or specialist equipment. It might be the opportunity to present their work in front of industry professionals.”

If you are a member of Staffordshire University staff and want to get involved please contact askhr@staffs.ac.uk

Dr Laura Walton-Williams

“It’s really difficult for students to get to the stage of asking for help,” said Dr Laura Walton-Williams. “But I’ve seen the individual impact of being able to access the Horizon Fund. It’s a huge lifeline for students.”

When she found out she could make monthly donations through a salary sacrifice scheme at Staffordshire University, she was keen to sign up.

She stresses that other members of staff contribute to improving students’ lives in different ways, particularly if they teach or can offer practical support.

Laura, Director of Enterprise Education, added: “I’m not in a frontline position where I can do that, but this is my way of contributing a small amount each month that doesn’t have a massive impact on my life but it’s cumulative.”

“I really liked the ethos of it. I’m a big advocate for education, but also a big advocate for social justice and recognising the challenges that people face.”

Technical Services

When a team of workmates were asked to help with a Horizon Fund video, they soon realised their specialist skills were a perfect match.

Matt Evans, Dan Haynes, Luke Fawsitt, Nathan Riley and Richard Amor Allan work for Technical Services at Staffordshire University and are based in the Media and Communications Hub.

They are responsible for loaning production equipment to students and teaching them how to use it for course assignments. With ready access to specialist kit – including cameras, lighting and sound - they were a natural choice to create and edit promotional videos for the Horizon Fund.

The team’s gift of time and talent has been worth thousands of pounds. Technical Specialist Dan Haynes said: “Doing it internally has also meant we can put something together in hours, days or a couple of weeks.”

Matt Evans, a Technical Instructor, added: “The things we’ve done for the Horizon Fund, we’ve done in our own time. We know it’s worth it. Without the videos, people wouldn’t see the impact the Horizon Fund is having.”

They began helping more than three years ago and also get students involved in supporting some of the filming and interviews. The videos have featured students who have benefited from bursaries and scholarships.

“At the end of the day, it helps the students”, said Dan.

The team’s day-to-day contact with students means they can also direct them towards extra funding and how to apply.

Richard Amor Allan, a Technical Specialist for PostProduction, said: “Hopefully, our involvement might encourage other people to think about what they can offer to the Horizon Fund. It’s having the practical expertise to help deliver things.”

“Ability

is given

out equally, but opportunity isn’t. It’s

nice to hear about the opportunities the students have been given through the Horizon Fund.”

See some of our Horizon Fund stories here

and donate

FUNDRAISING CHAMPIONS

CHARITY GOLF DAY BOOST TO THE HORIZON FUND

More than £3,000 has been raised at the annual charity golf day to support students with a passion for sport.

The money raised makes such a huge difference to so many students. It not only ensures that our students can enjoy a great student experience but helps them become more employable too.

The Staffordshire University Charity Golf Open 2023, held at Onneley Golf Club, raised a total of £3,131.50 for the University’s Horizon Fund which helps students access a range of life changing opportunities.

64 people from a range of organisations and business including Bentley Motors and Matrix Fitness UK took part in the annual event. Staff and alumni from Staffordshire University, Keele University and Stoke-on-Trent Sixth Form College were also involved. Key University Partner, Enterprise generously donated £500 to uplift fundraising for the event.

The Staffordshire University Charity Golf Open, is an annual event which has been running since 2017 – organised and hosted collaboratively by Staffordshire University Sport and Alumni Relations teams.

“A few pounds can go a long way, which is absolutely amazing, and the money raised is guaranteed to make a student’s dream come true”, said Samantha, Senior Development and Alumni Relations Officer. The Horizon Fund celebrated it’s 10th anniversary in 2023.

To encourage non-players to engage with the event, the itinerary included a raffle and a blind auction. Local businesses Goin’ Golf, Terraces, Yellow Duck Plumbing and Fused Sport, collectively sponsored awards and trophies for the top performers of the day.

LEADING FROM THE FRONT

Professor Martin Jones, the Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive Officer of Staffordshire University, took part in a sponsored cycling challenge to raise money for the Horizon Fund.

Professor Jones, who raced competitively for many years, led from the front by cycling 42 miles from Dore in Sheffield to Staffordshire University’s campus in Leek Road, Stoke-on-Trent.

He was chased in the car by his wife, Victoria, and son, Jocelin, who gave him a three-hour head start, trying to catch him before Leek Road.

He said: “I wanted to personally contribute to the Horizon Fund as we look to extend and expand the support we offer to our amazing students here at Staffordshire University.”

Total raised for these 2 events:

Martin Tideswell. Staffordshire University’s Director of Communities and Commercial Engagement, led a team of University colleagues on an epic quest to play tabletop roleplaying games for 24 hours to raise money for the Horizon Fund.

They used the University’s Virtual Production Studio for their games of Dungeons and Dragons and Call of Cthulhu, to the backdrop of artwork created by virtual production staff.

Martin said: “We were grateful to everyone who donated for helping to keep up the energy and excitement through 24 hours without sleep. The donations will make a huge difference to our students.”

Student case studies

Prabjyot Taank

Prabjyot Taank was struggling to afford food when he turned to a bursary for help.

With financial support from the ACH Crisford Charitable Foundation, he’s now been able to focus on his studies without feeling hungry.

And he has set his sights on specialising in 3D modelling after building his skills on a BSc (Hons) Computer Games Design course.

Diana Kibangou

Designers Exhibition Opportunity Award ACH Crisford Charitable Foundation Bursary

Fashion designer Diana Kibangou is an inspiration to others after drawing on her African heritage for an award-winning collection.

She created the showstopping outfits for her BA (Hons) Fashion degree so she could celebrate diversity and reflect her two cultures – Congolese and English.

Thanks to a Creative Opportunity Award, she got to showcase the work at Graduate Fashion Week. And Diana’s catwalk creations won the Culture and Heritage Design Award there.

She said: “I felt heard and nurtured at Staffordshire University and I want every little black Congolese girl out there to feel the same way I do. Growing up, I never felt represented in the fashion industry, but I want to be that representation for a young girl out there.

Prabjyot said: “I used most of the money to buy food and keep my stomach filled over the winter, and for travel when going back to my family for Christmas. The food I buy keeps me fuelled and energetic to learn more and work hard for longer without getting tired as quickly.”

Some of the financial support has also gone towards covering his rent as a student.

Prabjyot is proud of how much he has progressed on his degree course, learning lots of new skills such as texturing. “Another would be engine work, where I didn’t know anything at all but now have a good understanding of what to do and how to do it,” he added.

“Graduate Fashion Week is the biggest stage for up-and-coming designers. It has been for me a dream since the age of 15 when I decided to pursue fashion as a career.”

Now Diana has set her sights on becoming a creative director and working for a top fashion house run by the likes of Stella McCartney or Alexander McQueen.

Ellie Bowers Denise Coates Foundation Bursary

Ellie Bowers has landed her dream career as a police officer after a bursary spurred her on to achieve a first-class degree.

Thanks to the help from the Denise Coates Foundation, the BSc (Hons) Professional Policing graduate is now working as a Police Constable with Staffordshire Police. Her bursary money went towards textbooks, other course essentials, a parking permit, and a desk so she had a dedicated study space at home.

Ellie excelled on the degree and contributed to extracurricular activities, including supporting other students and taking part in a guest lecture about her experiences. She developed a particular interest in firearms investigation.

Her self-confidence has also been transformed on the back of the help she received during her course.

Ellie said: “It means the world. My mum’s so proud of me – I’m the first person in my

family to go to university. My partner, nan and grandad have been my biggest supporters as well. I just want to say thank you to the University for giving me the best three years.”

See Ellie’s full story here

Oscar Bell Filmmaker Fund and Employability Award

Film Production graduate Oscar Bell has won a Royal Television Society award after his talents were recognised through a bursary scheme.

He worked alongside fellow film students Darcy WootonDavis and Cameron Tura on the final-year project, Boys Don’t Cry, which explores body image and mental health. The trio went on to scoop a prize at the 2023 RTS Student Midlands Awards.

Oscar, who wrote and directed the entry, said: “Through making the film, we came across numerous men with various experiences of struggle that we witnessed. It proved to us that this topic and this film is really important.”

The success came after Oscar was awarded a £250 bursary from the Inspired Film and Video Filmmaker Fund to go towards his student work.

With Horizon Fund support, he also secured a role at the Rugby 7s event at the 2022 Commonwealth Games. As an assistant floor manager, he performed duties in front of a 30,000-strong crowd.

Oscar said: “This experience has been a huge awakening for me in several ways, most importantly for how to communicate and meet people in industry.”

See Oscar Bell, Big Boys Don’t Cry here

Afsana Hoque Denise Coates Foundation Bursary

When Afsana Hoque sums up the impact of her bursary, she feels a sense of pride. “It has opened up many opportunities to advance.”

The support from the Denise Coates Foundation has gone towards vital equipment for her BA (Hons) Education Studies course. “It meant I could buy a new laptop, which has been

extremely useful as I use this in lectures, for assignments and being able to access materials which are required for modules,” she said.

It has also paid for a printer and has helped to keep her car on the road, covering the cost of repairs so she can get to classes. Having the resources to focus on her studies has enriched Afsana’s university experience in other ways too.

“One of the most enjoyable moments of this last semester has included me doing a presentation for an equal opportunities module. A section of the presentation was based on my personal identity and how my culture ties into this.”

She’s now looking forward to completing her degree. “I aim to achieve the best possible grades,” added Afsana.

Joscaidy Abreu Horizon Fund Employability Award

A Law student has taken the first step towards becoming a barrister after she gained help from the Horizon Fund.

The financial assistance enabled Joscaidy Abreu to attend a mini-pupillage, which included travelling to London and visiting the Inns of Court. It provided an important insight into the variety of work involved in family law.

Joscaidy, who has since graduated with a Law degree from Staffordshire University, said: “I observed a case concerning the potential removal of a child from her mother’s custody. The witnesses involved found the experience very emotional. However, the barrister I was shadowing was empathetic and supportive and helped them through each step.

Joscaidy said: “This experience has given me invaluable tips to take forward with me to pupillage and to tenancy in the future. I would once again like to thank everyone that made this possible.”

Dylan Rosenbach Shepherd PR and Horizon Fund Scholarship

Business Management student

Dylan Rosenbach gained a fascinating insight into economics as part of a summer school in Vienna.

He got to attend the Alternative Economic and Monetary Systems Summer University thanks to a scholarship from Shepherd PR and the Horizon Fund.

Dylan previously had limited experience of economics, but came away with a deep comprehension of the intricate links between the subject and environmental sustainability. He learnt how innovative strategies can significantly influence business, the economy and the future.

Dylan said: “This scholarship-supported experience has been a valuable educational journey that will greatly enhance my future studies in International Business Management.

“The month in Vienna was one to remember and the friendships and bonds will not be forgotten. Getting to live in this wonderful city and experiencing it with wonderful people

was what made this whole experience. I would 100% recommend the experience to those who are determined to shape the future.”

He has now graduated and is taking a Masters in International Business Management.

See Dylan’s full story here

Razvan Preda Denise Coates Foundation Bursary

Razvan Preda has achieved a first-class degree.

Razvan secured a bursary from the Denise Coates Foundation and used the funding to support his studies. He graduated in 2023, surpassing his goal of achieving at least a 2:1 honours degree.

Razvan said: “After my experience at Staffordshire University, I am sure that it will be very easy for me to progress on to my career.”

The financial support he received went towards upgrading his computer components and graphics processing unit so he could work on projects at home. It also covered his transport costs to commute to and from the University.

Razvan’s computing skills include cyber security and networking concepts, as well as a variety of programming languages. Without the right specialist equipment for his course, he would have found it much harder to complete his assignments.

OUR YEAR 2022-23

Looking back at a few of the significant moments where the Horizon Fund has been instrumental in financially supporting students to make a huge difference.

2022

OCTOBER

Poland Documentary: Dariusz Konkiewicz

A series of images from Poland and England to form Dariusz Konkiewicz’s beautiful final year photography project.

NOVEMBER

Bursary Event

The first of our bursary events with more than 150 students receiving an award.

Filmmaker Award

Our Film students pitched to Inspired Film and Video for a chance at 3 prizes of £250.

DECEMBER

Carol Concert

Singing loud and proud to celebrate the festive season and raising £100 for our students.

2023

JANUARY

Clermont Ferrand

Film students attended the global Clermont-Ferrand International Short Film festival, focused on networking and showcasing their talents – the biggest international short film festival in the world.

FEBRUARY

Bursary Event

Our final bursary event of this academic year, celebrating with each recipient and learning more about their stories.

MARCH

Popcorn Award

Popcorn Learning Media supporting the future of film with a cash prize.

Camilla Goddard

Camilla Goddard receiving a once in a lifetime opportunity to learn from a ceramic legend, Kevin Millward.

MAY

Cannes Film Festival

The ultimate filmmakers dream, displaying their student film at the Cannes Film Festival.

JUNE

Annual Golf Tournament

The sun was shining for a spectacular tee off to support the Horizon Fund for the annual golf day.

Degree Show

The Scarr Hall Memorial Trust continued to support some of our most talented and deserving design students at our annual degree show.

JULY

New Designers

35 of the futures worldclass creators visited London to exhibit in New Designers, with many receiving job offers and invaluable networking opportunities.

Raising Funds, Widening Horizons

Staffordshire University’s Horizon Fund can unlock life-changing opportunities for students.

The Horizon Fund was launched at Staffordshire University in 2013, bringing together our University family of alumni, supporters, staff and students to fund life changing opportunity awards, bursaries and scholarships.

As a result more than 2,000 students have so far received awards ranging in value from £20 to £2,000!

Students often see finance, particularly travel and living costs, as a huge barrier to higher education. It is thanks to the Horizon Fund’s generous donors that many of these students are now able to access financial support.

However, development funds are not just targeted to those from lower income households. Equally important is the funding of opportunity awards for students from all backgrounds to extend their learning, seize new opportunities and achieve their ambitions.

Legacy Gift

By gifting to Staffordshire University Horizon Fund in your will, you can help the students of tomorrow overcome hurdles and achieve success.

Whether large or small, legacy gifts make a real difference. It’s a way of providing new opportunities and inspiration to students in your memory.

There are a number of ways of leaving a legacy. We recommend you speak to a solicitor to discuss the approach that is most appropriate for you. If you already have a will in place, your solicitor should be able to advise on how to make any changes.

A residuary legacy allows you to gift a percentage of your estate after providing for other beneficiaries and/or liabilities

A monetary (pecuniary) legacy allows you to gift a fixed amount

A reversionary legacy allows you to provide for a beneficiary during their lifetime, with the gift being passed on to the Horizon Fund upon their death

A conditional legacy allows for the fact you may outlive your named beneficiaries and can still leave part of your estate to the Horizon Fund

Specific legacy allows you to gift specific items

Depending on your individual circumstances, it may be possible to reduce the tax liability on your overall estate by making Staffordshire University Horizon Fund a beneficiary in your will. For its charitable activities, the University is exempt from paying tax on any gifts of money or property you choose to make. It means your gift can go further than you may have thought possible.

For more information, or to discuss your wishes, please don’t hesitate to contact us by phone on 01782 294942 or by emailing developmentoffice@staffs.ac.uk.

In Memoriam

When a loved one passes away it is often a heart wrenching time and one that can be difficult to process and understand. The Horizon Fund is supported by generous donations in memory of cherished people who are sadly no longer with us. Each prize is a way to memorialise these magnificent and influential individuals, to continue their name long after they have passed and support students to achieve their dreams.

Professor Robert ‘Bob’ Morrison

This prize honours the memory of Professor Robert ‘Bob’ Morrison, a graduate of Staffordshire University and a former staff member. Bob was from Stafford originally before emigrating to Australia.

He had a passion for trains which became the inspiration behind his

decision to embark on a successful career within the field of electronic engineering.

In memory of Bob, Antoinette Morrison, made this gift providing prize money of £1,000 each year for 30 years to the “Best Final Year Electrical Engineering” student at Staffordshire University.

Richard Evans Memorial Prize

“Rich was a handful as a baby - loved sport as a youngster - was a ‘skateboarder dude’ back in the day and went to school mainly because his friends were there. He was clever but never really knew what he wanted to do. He has always loved computer games - a Sega mega drive was an early prized possession but training in the games industry was not a serious prospect back then. He always worked, doing various jobs that were just a means to an end. He did Computer Aided Design and Computer Aided Manufacturing courses at night school and eventually got a fabulous job, only to be made redundant a year later when the company folded, he was 21. Having done several roles at Tesco, aged 28 he found a computer games design course at a local college, which would give him a stepping stone to go university. He was in a class of 16yr olds who originally thought he was the teacher! From there he went to Staffordshire University gaining a First-Class Honours Degree in Computer Games Design in July 2020.

To say we are proud is an understatement, resilience and determination are not qualities Richard himself knew he possessed.

To study for a degree is hard work. To study when you are a mature student, out of education for a long time and you have other commitments is really tough. Richard would have been thrilled if someone had given him some cash he wasn’t expecting and that he didn’t have to do anything extra for. Hence our donation.”

Carol Evans, mother

Thank you

We extend

our

heartfelt gratitude to each and every donor who has played a vital role in shaping the transformative impact reflected within these pages.

Your generosity has empowered dreams and fortified our commitment to excellence. We invite you to stay connected and explore more about the incredible journey we’re on together. For further information, or to discuss how you can make a difference, please do not hesitate to get in touch with our Development and Alumni Relations team. Your ongoing partnership is invaluable, and we look forward to the continued chapters of success we will write together. Thank you for being the driving force behind the positive change at Staffordshire University.