HORIZON FUND
IMPACT REPORT 2023-24
Giving with Impact
Together, we are the difference…
At the University of Staffordshire we are immensely proud of our reputation as a Place of Possibility. We work to support our students and connect them with aspirational opportunities.
And it is the resilience, persistence and adaptability of our students which continues to inspire us.
However, increasing numbers of students at the University of Staffordshire 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 – 29.3 per cent of whom are in the highest categories for deprivation.
That is why we pledge 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 2,200 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 graduates 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 impacts 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
A year in numbers
Together we are not just meeting targets we are sculpting a future where impact is measured not only in numbers but in the profound, positive and lasting differences made to our students’ lives.Thank you to all our donors, alumni and supporters who made this possible.
CHALLENGES OUR STUDENTS FACE:
Of our students are from the bottom two deciles of the deprivation category.
Of our full-time students commute to the University.
Many of our students are the first in their family to reach University – with 46.6% being drawn from areas with the lowest participation in education.
Of our students have a declared disability
Of students are classified as ‘mature’ on entry and may require support with childcare.
Stoke-on-Trent is 12th lowest in the country for social mobility.
HOW WE’VE SUPPORTED OUR STUDENTS
Since its inception the Horizon Fund has helped to transport students around the world to countries like:
To take on study visits, volunteering, life changing experiences e.g. building a school, volunteering in a hospital and key employment opportunities with industry experts!
Students supported via the Horizon Fund
Willing to help and give back their time
77,000 Alumni Interact with us through our digital platforms
Registered users on the Staffs Alumni Connected Community
Over 42,000 Reach for our Horizon Fund and Alumni Instagram and Facebook social media channels
Our alumni can be found across the globe in 172 countries!
Donors who make a difference
We are so proud and thankful to our University of Staffordshire 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 alum 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 University of Staffordshire 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 enjoying a new role as a barrister where he was recently called to the bar at Grays Inn and is now a tenant at St John’s buildings.
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 University of Staffordshire 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 University of Staffordshire 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’ finalyear projects, GradEX.
“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.”
Simon Clarke DL
Since 2015 the Clarke Family Trust has donated £91,000 to the Horizon Fund to support Opportunity Awards.
The support from the Clarke Family Trust has helped to transform the lives of over 300 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 University of Staffordshire.
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.
University of Staffordshire 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.
“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.”
The Lichfeldian Award
The Wednesday Morning Class are an inspirational group of individuals whose philosophy values the interest in the humanities, arts, and continued learning. Their compassion has led to the creation of the Lichfeldian Award – a £1,000 donation that will support a final year student in Fashion or Surface Pattern and Textile Design.
Designed to encourage artistic experimentation, creation, and promotion of their work, the Lichfeldian Award will support the chosen artist by empowering them to pursue their passions without worrying about financial constraints.
“We wanted to offer the University of Staffordshire this award as we found the sort of subjects available and the students fit with our group’s philosophy of furthering interest in humanities. We are thrilled to be able to offer support to a student and encourage their talent.”
“From all of us at The Wednesday Morning Class, we look forward to seeing how they progress.”
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 University of Staffordshire.
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 University of Staffordshire London, sponsors our GradEX showcase and offers prize money for competitions. Over a three-year period, it has awarded £20,000 in financial support to students.
Fred – who described their studies at Staffordshire as “top notch” – said they were both proud of the foundation’s work.
Fred
“It is incredibly important for me to encourage people to take up education to improve their lives and opportunities.”
Forshaw
Andrew Crisford
Sir David Bean
When former University of Staffordshire 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 University of Staffordshire. It’s a fitting tribute to his wife, who also served as DirectorGeneral 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 University of Staffordshire in 2022.
Denise Coates CBE
The Denise Coates Foundation, led by Denise Coates CBE, has helped hundreds of students achieve their ambitions.
Through its 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 900 students have benefitted 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 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 University of Staffordshire in 2013. She also received a CBE for her services to the community and business.
“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.”
The Denise Coates foundation was established in 2012. Since then it has contributed more than £1 million to the University of Staffordshire Horizon Fund.
Read more and donate to our Horizon Fund at giving.staffs.ac.uk
Staff who give
Jenny Amphlett
If every member of staff at the University of Staffordshire 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 University of Staffordshire 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 University of Staffordshire, 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.”
Staff who give
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 University of Staffordshire 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
FUNDRAISING CHAMPIONS
Our annual Charity Golf Day took place in June this year and was once again a resounding success, raising thousands of pounds for the Horizon Fund.
In total, £3,406 was raised, surpassing the totals raised in previous years, which is a testament to the organising team, as well as the overall engagement from the players. Participants included university staff, students, alumni, partners and friends who all came together to see who would come out as winner of the day. Each player brought with them a buzz and a positivity which made the event even more special.
Prizes on the day included a signed Stoke City shirt, Tours of both Gladstone and Middleport pottery, membership to the Sir Stanley Matthews Gym, and a number of golfing prizes including 4-ball at Onneley, Hawkstone and The Belfrey.
Hosting the event for the second consecutive year, Onneley Golf Club provided a friendly and accessible environment for all the players. The hospitality from all the team at Onneley were nothing short of exceptional. Sam Stevenson, part of the organising team for the Golf Day, said, “This has been the sixth year we’ve done this event and the second year we’ve been at Onneley. It goes without saying we’ve gone from strength to strength, with this year having more teams than ever before – we completely sold out! I’m looking forward to hosting the 2025 edition!”
Neil Johnson, staff member and a regular participant in the annual golf day, said, “The golf day is growing every year, Sam and Kate are growing it so well, we started off at Trentham park - leek - now have a home at Onneley golf club, the staff are amazing with breakfasts and then the lunch after play.”
“The course has improved every time we go back. Great that more teams are entering every year, and the prizes are great. Good that we have people taking photos of the day to publicise the day. Onwards and upwards for the golf day.”
Samantha Evans, Senior Development and Alumni Relations Officer at the university said, “The Horizon Fund was created to support students, giving them opportunities they thought impossible. This event has always been a success, and we look forward to doing it all over again in 2025. Massive credit goes out to the organising team.”
As we wrap up another successful fundraising campaign, we look ahead to the years ahead and the growing success of the Annual Golf Day.
Knot a Sports Day
Staffordshire companies and groups came together to raise a fantastic £13,000 for local charities at the first-ever Knot a Sports Day.
The event was held on Friday, June 28th at the University of Staffordshire. Twenty-seven teams from different local businesses took part in a day of fun sports activities. With more than 200 people playing games like tug of war, hungry hippos, and a pedal cart race, there was something for everyone.
The money raised will help support important local charities, including the Horizon Fund.
Josie Morris, the managing director of Woolcool and one of the organisers, said, “We’re really happy with how the first Knot a Sports Day went. It was great to see so many local businesses supporting us. We wanted to create a fun and inclusive event for everyone, while also raising money for good causes.”
“The money will make a real difference in our area. We’re so grateful to everyone who took part, volunteered, or sponsored the event. We can’t wait to do it again next year!”
Knot a Sports Day was designed to be open to people of all abilities from all kinds of businesses. The organisers wanted to raise money for local charities through a fun and inclusive event that would also help businesses meet new people.
The organisers of Knot a Sports Day are already planning for next year’s event, which they promise will be even better.
Student case studies
Computer Games Design
student Eden Morgan is taking their skills to the next level with support from the ACH Crisford Charitable Foundation. Thanks to this bursary, Eden was able to purchase a new laptop, which has helped them to access course materials, complete assignments, and deepen their understanding of the field.
Eden is currently in the thick of their Computer Games
Design degree, exploring key technical concepts like floats, Booleans, and vectors. Last semester, Eden
Ekaterina Trufanava
Eden Morgan Denise Coates Foundation ACH Crisford Charitable Foundation
Videography student Ekaterina is gaining essential industry skills through the support of the Denise Coates Foundation. The bursary has enabled her to participate in hands-on filmmaking workshops, where she has developed her expertise with lighting and new equipment and experienced a range of professional set environments.
designed a robot platform game, describing it as both “challenging yet rewarding.” They are now working on a tank design project, continuing to refine their skills in game development.
In addition to these projects, Eden is learning the intricacies of prop creation and pipeline production. They’ve crafted items like an NES controller and arcade props and have enjoyed transforming concept designs into tangible 3D creations.
Looking to the future, Eden is focused on expanding their skills in game design and development, aiming to compile a compelling portfolio by the end of the academic year that reflects their unique capabilities and creativity. Eden said: “The funding has made a significant impact on my academic journey. I’m truly grateful for the opportunities you’ve provided me.”
The funding has also allowed Ekaterina to travel abroad, where she took on an ambitious project that expanded her skills and perspective. “Going abroad not only helped me prepare for my future career, but being in a completely different culture made me realise how much more there is to life,” she said. Working in an industry setting gave her the freedom to explore creative ideas and make unique, impactful work. Ekaterina’s upcoming goals include building a vast portfolio to showcase her talent and attract clients.
She plans to collaborate with emerging brands and models to produce a mock advertisement, which is a big step towards establishing her name in the videography industry.
Reflecting on the bursary’s impact, Ekaterina shared, “The opportunity to explore a big aspect of my future job is something I couldn’t have achieved on my own. I’m incredibly grateful for the support I’ve received.”
Samantha Humphries Horizon Fund Bursary
Adult Nursing student Samantha Humphries is embarking on her healthcare journey with confidence and essential resources, thanks to the Horizon Fund Bursary. Now in her first NHS placement on a ward at UHNM, Samantha feels ready to take on this hands-on experience, supported by the bursary’s funding.
With her long, demanding hours, Samantha’s new memory foam shoes have been invaluable, offering comfort and durability during 13hour days that begin at 6:25 am. “They’ve been an absolute gamechanger,” she shared, noting how much of a difference they’ve made in her day-to-day work.
The bursary also enabled Samantha to purchase a tablet, which has been
essential for lectures, placements, and staying connected with peers and instructors. She has also invested in several important books, including a law and ethics guide which will serve as a critical reference throughout her studies.
Looking ahead, Samantha plans to save the remaining funds towards a new, faster laptop, which will further support her studies and assignments over the next two and a half years.
Samantha said, “Having the ability to purchase these items has greatly impacted the beginning of my journey towards my degree and career. Thank you for your support.”
Victoria Phillips Horizon Fund Bursary
First-year Midwifery student Victoria Phillips is embracing her studies with the support of the Horizon Fund Bursary. The bursary has enabled her to afford a DSA laptop with specialized programs, essential for her coursework and clinical placement preparations.
“Without the bursary, I couldn’t have afforded my contribution,” Victoria said, noting how this support has empowered her learning journey.
Beyond her laptop, the funding has covered essential books and travel expenses to and from her clinical placements. This has been particularly valuable as Victoria gains hands-on experience in supporting women and their families throughout pregnancy, labour, birth, and postpartum care. During her placement, she has observed and assisted in antenatal appointments, conducted physical exams, and provided postpartum support—vital experiences for her future career as a midwife.
Victoria has especially enjoyed learning about holistic care, an essential approach in midwifery. “A holistic approach to care recognises that pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum are multifaceted experiences,” she explained. This approach allows
midwives to address not only the medical needs but also the emotional, psychological, and social aspects, promoting positive experiences for women and their families.
Victoria shared, “The bursary has transformed how I approach my learning, giving me all the tools I need to support my ongoing education and hands-on learning on placement.”
Leon Seddon Bertarelli Foundation
For final-year student Leon Seddon, support from the Bertarelli Foundation has been a crucial part of his creative development, especially as he approaches graduation. With mounting deadlines, Leon has been refining his skills in storytelling, photography, and editing while expanding his proficiency in Unreal Engine.
Thanks to previous Bertarelli funding, Leon acquired a camera that has supported his university projects and enabled him to build his skills independently. This year, he plans to use additional funding to invest in camera lenses—a key step toward his future career goals and aspirations of starting his own business in photography. Reflecting on his journey, Leon shared, “The equipment I’ve acquired has allowed me to not only complete my university work but also set the foundation for my own practice.”
Leon has provided several recent captures from his portfolio, with plans to share further pieces as he progresses on his final project. “Thank you for helping me move closer to my goals,” he added.
Tom Sadler Denise Coates Foundation
BEng (Hons) Automotive & Motorsport Engineering student Tom Sadler is one step closer to his career goals, thanks to support from the Denise Coates Foundation. Reflecting on his studies, Tom finds that his industry-based classes have been particularly impactful, putting theoretical knowledge into context and giving him and his peers insight into real-world applications in the engineering sector.
With the bursary funding, Tom plans to invest in additional equipment to enhance his studies at home. This will not only allow him to advance on class projects but will also support his ambition to gain hands-on experience in electrical and design engineering. “The funding will make it easier to take on trackside or team-based roles in motorsport, as I can now travel more easily if those opportunities arise,” he said.
Expressing his gratitude, Tom shared, “It’s admirable for donors to turn their own success into opportunities
for others. I hope to make the most of the chance you’ve given me and, one day, offer the same support to future students.”
Ishbel Tarupiwa Social Action Bursary
Ishbel Tarupiwa is pursuing her degree with a focus on equality and diversity. Reflecting on her experiences last semester, she expresses gratitude for the opportunity to engage with topics that promote understanding and fairness across different races and ethnicities.
In her coursework, Ishbel particularly enjoyed her module on equality and diversity, appreciating its emphasis on treating individuals fairly, regardless of their backgrounds. With the support of the Social Action Bursary, Ishbel made several essential purchases, including books to enhance her studies. The bursary also helped cover transportation costs to and from the university, as well as essential items such as food, clothing, and stationery.
Looking ahead to this semester, Ishbel plans to allocate her next instalment towards similar needs, including the purchase of a hard drive to securely store her work as she prepares for her MA in social work.
In her own words, she acknowledges, “With the support you have given me throughout the years, I will definitely achieve my goal.”
Jade Brown Horizon Fund Bursary
Jade, a passionate nursing student, is thriving in her studies and placement, enjoying the hands-on experience and the opportunity to make a positive impact in patients’ lives. She finds great joy in connecting with patients, receiving positive feedback, and learning new skills that reinforce her love for nursing.
Despite the challenges of balancing long shifts with family life, Jade has adapted well. With the Horizon Fund Bursary, Jade has made thoughtful purchases that have enhanced both her studies and family life. She invested in a Littmann stethoscope, which has already provided heartwarming moments as she listens to her children’s heartbeats. She also purchased placement journals to document her journey and an iPad for notetaking, which has made studying more convenient. To create balance and quality time with her children, Jade used the bursary to purchase Merlin Annual Passes, allowing the family to enjoy memorable outings together. Looking ahead, Jade plans to use the next instalment to further support her academic and personal life. She intends to purchase an Apple Pencil to complement her iPad and more comfortable shoes for her placements, based on recommendations. She also hopes to set aside funds for a family holiday, recognising the importance of creating joyful memories with her children despite the financial challenges of being a single parent.
Jade’s goals for the year are to continue finding happiness in her work, grow her confidence in her nursing degree, and embrace every learning opportunity. Reflecting on the support she’s received; she expresses deep gratitude to the donors of the Horizon Fund.
“There’s something so powerful about kindness from people you’ve never met. Strangers who know little about your struggles but choose to help. That kindness gives hope for humanity,” she shares.
Raising Funds, Widening Horizons
The University of Staffordshire’s Horizon Fund can unlock lifechanging opportunities for students.
The Horizon Fund was launched at the University of Staffordshire 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.
If you would like to donate to the Horizon Fund by making a regular monthly donation or giving a one-off amount then it couldn’t be easier. Simply visit giving.staffs.ac.uk to donate.
Read more and donate to our Horizon Fund at giving.staffs.ac.uk
If you would like to donate to the Horizon Fund by making a regular monthly donation or giving a one-off amount then it couldn’t be easier. Simply visit giving.staffs.ac.uk to donate or contact developmentoffice@staffs.ac.uk
Legacy Gift
By gifting to the University of Staffordshire’s 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 lawyer 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 the University of Staffordshire 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 email 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 University of Staffordshire 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 University of Staffordshire.
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 University of Staffordshire 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
For further information, please do not hesitate to get in touch with Aaron Phillips, Senior Development and Alumni Relations Officer. 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 positive change at the University of Staffordshire.
Aaron Phillips
Senior Development and
Officer
