UHI North, West and Hebrides celebrates exceptional staff in 2026 HISA Awards

UHI North, West and Hebrides has achieved outstanding success at the 2026 Highlands and Islands Students' Association (HISA) Awards, securing three wins and two highly commended accolades.

Staff, students, clubs and support teams from across UHI North, West and Hebrides were recognised at the annual awards, which celebrate individuals and groups who have made a significant impact on the student experience across UHI. Winners and highly commended recipients were selected by a student judging panel made up of HISA elected officers and faculty interns, following more than 600 nominations submitted by students across the UHI partnership.

The awards recognise excellence across teaching, student support, online learning, research supervision and student life, highlighting the dedication and commitment shown by staff and students throughout the UHI partnership.

Principal and Chief Executive of UHI North, West and Hebrides, Lydia Rohmer, said:

"These awards are a wonderful reflection of the talent, dedication and commitment that make UHI North, West and Hebrides such a special place to learn and work. To secure three wins and two highly commended accolades, chosen entirely by our students, is a tremendous achievement and a real testament to the difference our staff make every day.

"I want to congratulate Shaun, Stephen and the Wild Swimming Society on their well-deserved recognition and extend my warmest thanks to Coleen and Fiona for their highly commended nominations. Each of them exemplifies the values at the heart of what we do, putting students first and going above and beyond to support them.

"It is particularly meaningful that these awards are driven by student nominations. Knowing that the people we serve have taken the time to recognise these colleagues makes this all the more special."

Above and Beyond – Staff Award Winner: Shaun Escott, Course Leader in Maritime Skills, based in Portree

"I am very lucky to work in the profession I work in; nothing gives me greater pleasure than to see students succeed, achieve and change their lives for the better via education. No door is ever closed, no matter what people think and once people have the confidence nothing should stand in their way and I love being along for the ride. I am very humbled and shocked with the award, I really do appreciate it as working with students allows me to be me."

Best Professional Services or Support Staff Winner: Stephen Brown, Facilities Technician, based in Stornoway

"I have worked at UHI North, West and Hebrides, Stornoway for over 18 years as a member of an amazing estates team that works tirelessly behind the scenes every day to provide a safe clean environment for students to study and staff to work in. It really is a privilege to be part of that."

Best Student Club or Society Winner: Wild Swimming Society, based in Fort William

"We are delighted to receive this award. We feel incredibly fortunate to have shared so many memorable moments celebrating and exploring the beautiful Highlands with our wonderful community club."

UHI North, West and Hebrides also extends its congratulations to Coleen MacLean, Highly Commended for Best Research or Dissertation Supervisor, and Fiona Harper, based in Thurso, Highly Commended for Most Engaging Online Delivery, as well as to all winners and highly commended recipients across the wider UHI partnership.

Winners will receive their awards during graduation ceremonies later this year.

Inspired by our staff and students? Find out more about what UHI North, West and Hebrides has to offer and apply for 2026 entry. 

Further information about the HISA Awards and the work of HISA can be found on the HISA website.