TWO accomplished women, Helen Michael and Elizabeth Molloy, have been recognised by the University of Cumbria for their achievements as mature students.

Helen, who has had a diverse nursing career, has been named 'Alumnus of the Year', while Elizabeth, who recently graduated with a law degree, received the 'Spirit of Cumbria' award.

Helen Michael, the recipient of the 'Alumnus of the Year' award, has had a remarkable journey in the field of nursing.

Born and raised in rural north Cumbria, Helen initially pursued a career in geology, earning a degree and eventually a PhD in Geochemistry.

However, after working as a healthcare assistant during her studies, Helen discovered her calling in nursing.

At the age of 32, Helen decided to return to university and study adult nursing at St Martin's College, now the University of Cumbria.

She graduated with a first-class degree in 2009 and went on to work for various healthcare organizations, including the sexual health charity Brook and the Care Quality Commission.

Helen currently serves as the Clinical Lead for Risk and Improvement at NHS Professionals, where she focuses on quality improvement and patient safety.

 “My journey through nursing has been very different: sexual health, research nursing, an inspector for the healthcare regulator, and now as a clinical lead in clinical governance. In the past I used to put myself down, tell others I wasn’t ‘a proper nurse’ when they asked about a rash or a lump – 'Ask my sister – she’s a proper nurse.'

"But as I get further into my career and have seen people coming in from a clinical environment trying to do my job, I realise I do have a set of  skills that have a direct impact on patient safety and help drive quality improvement," she said. 

Elizabeth Molloy has also overcome significant challenges to pursue her educational and professional goals.

After returning to the UK from France, Elizabeth faced health issues that led to a three-year hospital stay.

Determined to redefine her life, she enrolled in night classes to obtain her GCSEs in English and Maths.

Six months later, Elizabeth applied to the University of Cumbria and completed the integrated foundation year pathway, a program that helps students develop study skills before pursuing their chosen degree.

Throughout her time at the university, Elizabeth persevered through personal difficulties, including bereavement, serious illness, and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Despite these challenges, Elizabeth emerged as an inspirational role model for her fellow students and academic peers.

She actively engaged with the university's Law department, held positions within the Students' Union, and worked to embed wellbeing into the curriculum.

"Without the support of the university I would not have got through my degree.

"When I restarted my education journey, I was still very ill.

"I had little confidence but over the years this has built up as has my mental strength and belief in my ability. Without the support from tutors, student union and the rest of the staff I would not be the person I have become today," she said. l