The Principal's Medals celebrate the attainments and dedication of staff and students who have delivered exceptional service or support to the University or the wider community, and who have strongly demonstrated the University’s values.
Recipients are nominated by fellow students and staff members and the winners are chosen by the Principal.
Medals will be awarded to the winners at this year’s graduation ceremonies.
“It was a great pleasure to read all the nominations and learn about the many ways students and staff are going above and beyond in their contributions to the University community. As always, it was difficult to select the winners. My thanks and congratulations to all those that were nominated and most of all to the winners. My thanks, also, to those that took the time to nominate and recognise their efforts.”
Professor Sir Peter Mathieson, Principal and Vice-Chancellor
This year’s winners
Meera Mokashi is a postgraduate taught student at the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies. Meera is being recognised for her roles as PGT School and Programme Representative and on various committees, where she has demonstrated great leadership skills and a commitment to fostering community among distance learners.
Kelisha Pandaram will graduate from the Business School later this month. She is being recognised for her efforts to create the Edinburgh Hikers group. This is an inclusive and community-building society that connects students from diverse backgrounds through nature, wellbeing, and shared stories.
Mathew Trodden is the Performance Head Swimming Coach at Sport and Active Health. He is being recognised for his leadership, compassion, and unwavering dedication to his athletes. This has seen them succeed in national and Paralympic championships.
David Abel is an Honorary Fellow in the School of Informatics. He is being recognised for his outstanding contribution within the School. This includes stepping in at short notice to mentor and teach a group of students, and for his engagement with the wider research community.
Joe Brannigan is being recognised for his work in the Estates department on Health and Safety, where he helped to transform the culture of team through his pragmatic leadership before retiring earlier this year.
The Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv Donation Team are being recognised for their efforts in delivering vital IT equipment to Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv. This enabled the University of Edinburgh to support a key international partner when they were in acute need. Team Leaders Ian MacDougall and Michelle Beagan will collect the award on behalf of their colleagues.