University’s Vice Chancellor receives prestigious High Sheriff’s Award

Professor Nick Petford, Vice Chancellor of the University of Northampton, was presented with the High Sheriff’s Award for his contribution in helping to make Higher Education more accessible in Northamptonshire.

The High Sheriff’s Award is presented to individuals and organisations who have made a difference within the county. Dr Ahmed Ibrahim Mukhtar, the current High Sheriff of Northamptonshire, chose Professor Petford as one of this year’s eight recipients because of the progress the University has made under his leadership.

Dr Mukhtar commented: “I was on the governing council for University College Northampton and then subsequently the University of Northampton for several years and was also present when Professor Petford was appointed as Vice Chancellor. In this time the University has developed into a leading Higher Education institution and its ethos echoes my beliefs of encouraging and supporting students of all backgrounds to engage in learning. Professor Petford has also been a great support to myself as an individual and with the High Sheriff lectures.

“This award recognises both the work of the University and the work of Professor Petford and also celebrates the 10-year milestone of becoming a full-status university.”

Professor Nick Petford said: “I am very pleased and proud to accept this award on behalf the University and all its achievements. At the heart of everything we do is and offer is our commitment to transforming lives and inspiring change. By 2020 we aim to be positioned in the heart of Northamptonshire, intellectually, culturally and economically, delivering a student experience of the highest quality in line with our strategic vision and values.”