Donors and students celebrate UWL’s life-changing scholarships and bursaries
Donors who have given money to the University of West London (UWL) and students who have benefited from this generosity attended a Donors and Scholars Reception at UWL’s award-winning Pillars Restaurant, recently.
A total of 77 supporters and students enjoyed canapés and live music at the event, which was a celebration of the wonderful impact which scholarships, bursaries and prizes have upon the life chances of young people, by providing funding that makes higher education possible.
Among those who joined Vice-Chancellor Professor Peter John and other members of the Vice-Chancellor’s Executive at the Reception, were contributors Dame Professor Elizabeth Anionwu and His Worship, Samuel Billich. In the past year, 84 benefactors have donated more than £100,000, which has helped more than 100 students to study at UWL.
Addressing attendees, final-year law student, Nathanial Perera – who received the School of Law and Criminology Alumni Award – praised donors for providing life-changing opportunities. He said: ‘My time here at the University has pushed me to achieve the best I can. I am very proud to say that the person standing before you was shaped and moulded by the University of West London.’
Across the University’s community, 98% of students attended state schools – which is eight percent higher than the national average, while 54% of students come from families with a household income of less than £25,000.
Commenting on the Reception, UWL Vice-Chancellor, Professor Peter John, said: ‘Widening participation is at the heart of the University’s mission. This is clearly reflected in our inclusive culture which supports one of the most diverse student populations in the UK. Receiving a top-quality education should not be based on how much money an individual has – but instead on their merit and hard work.
‘Thanks to the generosity of donors, we are able to help many of our students, allowing them the opportunity to study for their degree, while also equipping them with essential life skills. The Donors and Scholars Reception offers a great occasion for donors to meet the scholarship recipients that have benefited directly from this support, and for students to thank the people who made this funding possible.’
