The University's Access and Articulation Team has taken up the challenge of covering a massive 525 miles to support the Development Trust's #525Covid19 Bursary appeal to help students who face financial hardship as a result of the current health crisis.
Sally Middleton, Anna Johnston, Emily Hoey and Chris Sojka will be covering the miles mainly by running, walking and cycling over the next few weeks, but will also be covering the steps indoors if they are unable to get outdoors.
Dr Sally Middleton said that many of the students she and her team work with are being adversely impacted by the current climate and are, unfortunately, facing unexpected hardships.
“Many rely on part-time incomes to support their studies and, in some cases, applicants are now wondering if they can afford to start university at all,’ said Sally.
“As a team, we wanted to do something practical to support the group of students we work closely with, and so we committed to travelling 525 miles by walking, running or cycling between now and the start of term. Being active is also an important part of maintaining wellbeing, so I’ve been encouraging my team to fit in exercise as part of their working day.
“Our chosen target of 525 miles is in recognition of the University’s 525th anniversary and the recent launch of the Covid-19 525 Bursary Fund, which our students will be able to draw on to help them through this difficult year.”
Rob Donelson, Executive Director of Advancement, said: “We have been overwhelmed by the generosity of our #ABDNFamily towards our appeal and we can’t thank the Access and Articulation Team enough. Their support and commitment to the campaign is fantastic and it will have a huge impact.”
To support Sally and her team, you and your colleagues can join the challenge by contacting Sally at sally.middleton@abdn.ac.uk You can also make a donation at the following link: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/widening-access-UoA