2024 Celebration of Philanthropy at the House of Lords
An opportunity to thank our donors and friends for their support of life-changing scholarships and world-leading research, the evening was a highlight of the University calendar and recognised the vital role philanthropy has played throughout Manchester Met’s 200-year history.
Since our founding in 1824 as the Manchester Mechanics’ Institution, the University has strived to nurture and support talent and potential, regardless of background. Today, Manchester Met is one of the most diverse and inclusive universities in the UK. Donations from our supporters help the University enrol more than twice as many young people from the UK’s most deprived areas than the universities of Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial, Durham and LSE combined.
Thanking those in attendance for their support, Professor Malcolm Press observed:
“The value of higher education extends far beyond the individual, it is also a powerful force for social mobility and economic prosperity. It is well-known that individuals with higher levels of education tend to have better outcomes in life through an increase in income, better health outcomes and greater civic engagement. By investing in education at Manchester Metropolitan University, we not only uplift the individual, but also strengthen our local communities and the wider national economy.”
For many of our guests, a high point of the evening was getting to meet a small number of the 600 students currently in receipt of a donor-funded scholarship. Many of these students are from groups under-represented within higher education and drawn from areas of high economic and social deprivation.
During the evening Lord Mandelson, spoke passionately about Manchester Met’s commitment to breaking down barriers and widening access to higher education before introducing First Generation Scholar, Elle, to the stage. Elle then shared her own personal journey with guests, outlining the difference being part of the First Generation Programme has made to her time at university.
“The impact of this scholarship on my education cannot be overstated. It has been the bridge that connected my aspirations with reality. With the financial implications alleviated, I have been able to fully immerse myself in my studies, taking advantage of every opportunity for growth and learning. Beyond my law degree, the scholarship has enabled me to access resources and experiences that have enriched my education; from meeting professionals across a number of different industries to supporting me with internships.”
You can view more images of the event and a short inspirational film on the impact of philanthropy, that was shown on the evening, here.
To learn more about our scholarship students and to pledge a donation of your own please visit mmu.ac.uk/giving.
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