QMU in the finals of Herald Higher Education Awards 2026
Queen Margaret University has once again demonstrated its commitment to excellence with three of its standout projects and individuals reaching the finals of the Herald Higher Education Awards 2026.
Building on last year’s success, when QMU was named Higher Education Institute of the Year 2025, the University has been recognised across categories that showcase its commitment to inclusive economic growth, creative innovation, and student leadership.
Outstanding Business Engagement in Universities - Community Wealth Building
QMU’s pioneering work in Community Wealth Building has earned a place in the finals for its innovative approach to strengthening local economies. Through its strategic partnership with East Lothian Council, the University champions a model of economic development that places people, communities and local prosperity at its heart.
Outstanding Contribution from a University Student - Nursing Student Aisling Thomas
Nursing student Aisling Thomas has been named a finalist for her exceptional dedication to student peer support, widening participation and inclusive teaching initiatives. Aisling’s fierce intellect, and her leadership and compassion for fellow students, exemplify the values of QMU and highlight the profound impact individual students can have on the entire student experience.
Marketing/PR Campaign of the Year - QMU150: Acting with Head, Heart and Hand
QMU’s ‘QMU150’ anniversary campaign has been shortlisted for its bold celebration of the University’s heritage and future. Rather than taking a traditional commemorative approach, QMU used its150th anniversary to reinvigorate the University community’s shared sense of purpose, and as part of that, breathing life into an old institutional motto: ‘Head, Heart and Hand’.
The campaign was designed to boost morale, enrich the student experience, and strengthen connections with communities beyond the campus, all while shining a light on the University’s longstanding social mission. By bringing together students, staff, alumni, and partners, QMU150 encouraged people to reflect on 150 years of purpose-driven education and to recognise the broader value of higher education in society. The result is a legacy-focused campaign that not only celebrates the past but also inspires collective ambition for the years ahead.
We are delighted to see our staff, students, and partners recognised at this year’s Herald Higher Education Awards. These nominations reflect the University’s commitment to social justice, community partnership, and nurturing the next generation of changemakers. We are incredibly proud of the teams and individuals whose work has been shortlisted, and we very much look forward to the announcement of the winners on 20th May.
For further media information contact: Lynne Russell, Communications Manager, Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh, E: lrussell@qmu.ac.uk (copy to pressoffice@qmu.ac.uk).
