Black Isle receptionist honoured in student awards

A Black Isle woman has been honoured in the University of the Highlands and Islands’ annual teaching awards. Students nominated Anne Rodgers, a receptionist at Highland Theological College UHI in Dingwall, as winner of the ‘Best Support Staff’ category.

Anne, (51) from Rosemarkie, was praised for her welcoming and helpful manner. One student explained: “Anne has been very helpful to me whenever I contacted the college through letter or telephone. As a prisoner, it is very difficult to concentrate on studies because of the restriction and atmosphere in the prison. It also becomes difficult to study without access to the college website or video link. If I need any help, there is only one option left and that is to contact staff or the library by letter or telephone. Anytime I make a call to the college, Anne always welcomes me and puts me through to the right department or person. I could hear from Anne’s voice that she is always willing to support and help me as a person which has a genuinely positive effect on my studies.”

Anne will be presented with a trophy and certificate at Highland Theological College UHI’s graduation ceremony in September. Speaking her award, she said: “I really enjoy my work here and it’s lovely to receive this award and to be part of a great student support team.”

The University of the Highlands and Islands was one of the first UK institutions to introduce student-led teaching awards. The initiative, now in its sixth year, recognises excellence in seven categories, with winners coming from around the university partnership. Other staff who have received accolades this year are:

• Peter Noble, North Highland College UHI, ‘Most Inspiring Lecturer’
• Dr Elizabeth Ritchie, Centre for History, ‘Best Dissertation Supervisor’
• Dr Eddie Graham, Lews Castle College UHI, ‘Most Engaging Online Tutor’
• Professor Kirsty Crocket, SAMS UHI, ‘Best Assessment Feedback’
• Dr Qusai Al-Hamdan, Perth College UHI, ‘Best Personal Academic Tutor’
• Silke Reeploeg, Shetland College UHI, ‘Most Engaging Video-conference Tutor’

Dr Iain Morrison, dean of students at the university, said: “I would like to congratulate everyone who was recognised in our teaching awards. The winners were chosen by the people who matter to us most - our students. Each winner, along with the many other nominees, should be proud of the positive impact they’ve had on the learners in our region. Students are at the heart of what we do and our wonderful lecturers and professional services staff are critically important in helping them achieve as much as they can.”