ASRA is the leading representative organisation for student accommodation professionals throughout the UK and Ireland, promoting the best in student housing and management, and supporting the work of those working in the education, public and private sectors.

The second annual ASRA awards – held on Tuesday 8 April as part of the two-and-a-half-day conference at the De Vere Cotswold Water Park – presented awards in four categories, the finalists of which were announced in February.

Niamh’s ‘Res Life Hero of the Year’ Award recognises her as an “Individual who had gone the extra mile, going above and beyond their daily duties to make a positive difference to [...] residents’ lives."

Commenting on the award, Niamh said:

“I'm incredibly grateful to receive the ASRA award for my work in Residential Life. Huge thanks to the rest of the ResLife (and wider Accommodation Team) for their help and support. I'm very lucky to work with fantastic and caring colleagues who want our residents to have the best student experience. Most importantly thanks to our Queen’s Accommodation students, for teaching us about their world and for making our community what it is – this is as much theirs as it is mine!”

Mike Uprichard, Head of Accommodation at Queen’s University Belfast, said:

"We are so proud of Niamh's achievement at the ASRA awards. From the beginning of her time in our Residential Life Team, Niamh has exemplified the supportive qualities that make a real difference to our students as they go through their university journey. Her commitment to students epitomises the values that underpin what Queen's is all about. Congratulations Niamh – we could not be more delighted to see you receive this recognition."

Niamh’s Residential Life Hero of the Year Award comes as she celebrates eight years within Queen's Residential Life team. Niamh has focused on student wellbeing, supporting students who have moved away from home and are learning to live independently. She has forged strong links with many colleagues, including in the Widening Participation Unit, and is an advocate for students with disabilities, regularly meeting them and their parents or guardians prior to arrival and ensuring their comfort.

Niamh has also planned bespoke events to ensure that neurodiverse students and those with sight and hearing impairments can take part in events and trips, contributing to a greater feeling of belonging and sense of community.

 
ENDS