One Union Awards
On Saturday the 19th of April the Students’ Association proudly hosted the inaugural One Union Awards to celebrate the legacies our student community continue to build.
This event brought together:
- The Student Excellence Awards - celebrating students who exemplify leadership, inclusivity, and community impact.
- The EduRep Awards - honouring academic representatives who have gone above and beyond to support their peers and enhance the academic experience.
- The Society Awards - recognising societies that have created welcoming spaces and delivered impactful events.
From our class reps to volunteers, societies, and campaigners the evening celebrated the diverse and incredible students that make St Andrews such a special place.
There was also an opportunity to present Mark Bunyan - a St Andrews Alumnus - with an Honorary Life Membership, in recognition of his outstanding contributions and unwavering dedication to our community.
2024/2025 Award Winners:
Student Excellence Awards:
John Honey: Andrew Halyburton and Bella Hirst
President's Representation: Naomi Smith
Elsie Howie: Molly Reade
Bruce Turner Activities Award: James Buckle and Louise Anderbjork
Dr Norman Scott Kemp: Isabella Neergaard
Proctor's Award: Sushmhitah Sandanatavan and Emily Bannister
Rector's Award: Alex Chun
EduRep Awards:
Outstanding Sustainability Initiative: Evie Morgan, Medicine
Outstanding Accessibility Advocacy: Jessica Nunn, Philosophical, Anthropological and Film Studies
Outstanding Inclusivity Initiative: Anisha Minocha, English
Outstanding Event: Hayley Stone, Psychology and Neuroscience
Outstanding Postgraduate Representation: Amy Elizabeth Hopkins, Art History
Outstanding Class Representative (Arts & Divinity): Sarah Al-Hajj, Modern Languages
Outstanding Class Representative (Science & Medicine): Alisa Senses, Physics and Astronomy
Outstanding School President of the Year: Nick Townsend, History
Society Awards:
Best Society: Bute Medical, Pool
Best Event: Afro-Caribbean, Sikh
Best Online Presence: Photography, Chemical
Most Collaborative Society: Astronomical, Chess
Community Engagement: Jazz, St Candrews
Most Innovative Society: Motorsports, Neuroscience
Best Charitable and Volunteering Society: St Candrews, Women for Women
Best New Society: Salsa & Bachata, Fintech
Accessibility Award: Pool, Yoga
About Mark:
Mark has carried an incredible legacy and has had a lasting impact not only on the St Andrews community but far beyond.
Mark’s journey with St Andrews began in the late 1960s, where he immersed himself in the university’s vibrant cultural scene—writing for the student newspaper, directing plays, and performing in revues. His time in St Andrews laid the foundation for a remarkable career that seamlessly blends artistry with advocacy.
In 1983, Mark co-founded the Pink Singers, Europe’s oldest LGBT+ choir, alongside the late Brian Kennedy. This choir was more than just a musical ensemble; it was a bold statement of visibility and pride during a time when such expressions were met with resistance. Their first public performance at the London Pride march that year was a powerful act of solidarity and celebration.
Beyond the stage, Mark has been a tireless advocate for LGBT rights. He was instrumental in the establishment of Gay’s The Word, the UK’s first gay and lesbian bookshop, providing a safe space and resource centre for the community during challenging times.
Mark’s enduring connection to our university is evident in his continued support and inspiration to students and alumni alike.
Find out more abou the Awards here.
