Each year, we celebrate the contributions of our staff and students to the research community within the Faculty of Engineering & Design. Among this year's awards, Dr Hannah Leese, from the Department of Chemical Engineering, received the award for Generous Leader. She tells us what this means to her.
“I am incredibly grateful to have been recognised for Generous Leadership in this year’s Faculty Research Culture Awards. I’ve been so very fortunate to work alongside incredibly supportive colleagues and mentors, who have modelled these values with openness, honesty and generosity. I have learned so much from those who have trusted me with their challenges, shared ideas, and invited me into meaningful conversations. The strength of our culture lies in its diversity and willingness to support one another.
This award is a celebration of the collaborative, inclusive spirit that drives our research community forward. I’m extremely grateful to those who nominated me, and to all the colleagues who make our environment so rewarding to be part of.
I’m looking forward, together, to keep championing generosity, trust, and inclusion in our everyday practices.”
The winner
Hannah holds the roles for:
- Director of Research, Department of Chemical Engineering
- Deputy Director of the Centre for Bioengineering and Biomedical Technologies (CBio)
The award
The Generous Leader award recognises a leader who gives generously of their time, knowledge, and trust, and who actively creates opportunities for others to thrive within the research environment. They are open to ideas from colleagues, freely acknowledge contributions, and lead with an unselfish, understanding approach. Through their actions, they nurture a supportive, inclusive, and diverse research culture where all colleagues feel valued and respected, regardless of background or career stage.
