Celebrating a Year of Global Excellence
On 10 November 2025, the University of Wolverhampton’s City Campus hosted the 2025 Alumni Awards ceremony in the Chancellor’s Hall. The event brought together former students, faculty, staff and international guests, reinforcing the university’s commitment to making a difference beyond its physical borders. Representatives from the United Arab Emirates, Brazil, Bangladesh and Spain were in attendance, underscoring the widespread reach of Wolverhampton’s alumni network.
Highlights of the Evening
The ceremony recognised graduates who have excelled across a range of disciplines: from humanitarian work and public health to technology innovation and professional leadership. Below are the award winners and the stories that made the evening memorable.
Distinguished Service – Rezwana Ahmed
Rezwana Ahmed, a global alumni ambassador, flew in from Bangladesh to lead the Summer Graduation ceremony. Her efforts, which combined warmth and dedication, inspired hundreds of graduates and set a benchmark for community engagement.
Young Alumni of the Year – Dr Marvin Kopka
Dr Kopka is a WHO adviser and a digital health researcher shaping the use of artificial intelligence in global healthcare. His work is improving access to care for populations in under‑served regions.
Sporting Excellence – Lucy Renshall
Lucy Renshall, an international judoka, balances elite competition with grassroots mentorship. Her dual role as athlete and educator showcases the university’s emphasis on holistic development.
Business & Innovation – Dr Abhishek Gupta
Dr Gupta is a pioneer in nanotechnology, working to transform wound care through global health technology. His translational research illustrates how university‑driven science can address urgent medical needs worldwide.
Humanitarian of the Year – Dr Alvine Dongmo‑Noumey
Dr Dongmo‑Noumey leads foundations focused on empowering migrants and confronting poverty in Cameroon and the United Kingdom. Her humanitarian reach exemplifies the social mission that the university upholds.
Changemaker – Dr Marcel do Nascimento Botelho
In the Amazon, Dr Botelho drives climate justice, education access and bio‑economy research. His work tackles environmental challenges head‑on, reinforcing Wolverhampton’s commitment to global sustainability.
Professional Excellence Winners
- UK – Victoria Hills, built‑environment leader shaping national planning policy and urban development.
- International – Ahmed Hassan Al Manqatiny, agribusiness innovator improving food security across the Middle East.
- Healthcare – Maria Glover, cardiac rehabilitation leader revolutionising digital health for cardiovascular care.
- Law – Lauranne Middleton, legal inspector advancing justice and domestic‑abuse reform.
Lifetime Achievement – Dr Paul Darke
Dr Darke has pioneered disability rights, media, and global cultural representation. His lifetime of advocacy serves as a guiding light for future alumni.
Hall of Fame Inductees
Five distinguished alumni were inducted into the University’s Hall of Fame, Class of 2025, honouring individuals who have made a lasting mark:
- Anthony Marsh
- Adrian Hallmark
- Álvaro Moreno de la Santa
- Sandra Wallace CBE
- Angela Spence
What the Awards Reveal About University Impact
The diversity of awardees—spanning technology, health, law, entrepreneurship, and humanitarian service—demonstrates that Wolverhampton alumni are actively shaping global developments. The ceremony served as a reminder of the university’s role in launching careers that transcend borders.
Connecting Alumni with New Opportunities
For alumni looking to stay involved or seek new professional avenues, the University offers several support structures:
- Alumni Network: Engage with former students worldwide, access job listings, and participate in mentorship programs.
- Continuing Professional Development: Short courses and executive education help alumni refine skills in a rapidly evolving job market.
- Research Collaborations: Join interdisciplinary projects that respond to global challenges such as climate change or public health.
How to Get Involved
Interested in contributing to the next generation or learning more about the university’s offerings, consider the following:
- Explore the university’s courses and find a program that aligns with your career goals.
- Apply as a mentor through the alumni portal to share experience with students in the same field.
- Attend virtual seminars and webinars hosted by faculty and industry practitioners.
Future Outlook and Continued Success
As the University of Wolverhampton continues to broaden its global reach, alumni remain central to its mission. The 2025 Alumni Awards showcase a community that is both diverse and driven, setting a high standard for the next cohort of graduates.
Take the Next Step in Your Alumni Journey
If you are an alumni looking to engage more fully—or a prospective student curious about the impact you could make—discover what the University offers and join the conversation today.
Learn more about the University of Wolverhampton’s courses, connect with former students, or apply now to be part of our growing global community.
For support or questions, contact the university’s corporate communications team or join the alumni Slack channel for real‑time networking.
Celebrate the stories of past winners, and imagine the possibilities your own achievements could unlock for society.
