DerbyStars
DerbyStars is a Students’ Union recognition initiative that celebrates both students and staff for their everyday acts of kindness and meaningful contributions - within and beyond the University community.
Every week, members of our university community can nominate someone who has gone above and beyond. This could be through academic dedication, leadership, community engagement, mentorship, or a simple act of kindness that made a difference.
DerbyStars exists to shine a light on the everyday excellence that strengthens our university culture.
Because a happy community makes a happy university, and no act of kindness is too small to be recognised.
Our Purpose
DerbyStars was created to:
- Build a culture of appreciation and gratitude
- Recognise positive contributions across campus
- Encourage peer-to-peer and student-to-staff recognition
- Celebrate those who quietly make a difference
- Strengthen the sense of belonging within our University
- Recognition inspires more positive action - and together, we shape the culture we want to see
Our Commitment
DerbyStars is committed to fairness, integrity, inclusivity, and respect.
We celebrate impact in all its forms - from large initiatives to small acts of kindness that make someone’s day better.
Because community is built in moments.
— Sam Oluwadare, Vice President (Education)
Internal Impact - Within the University
Celebrating students and staff who positively influence life inside the University.
This may include:
- Supporting classmates or colleagues
- Inspirational teaching or mentoring
- Outstanding course representation
- Leadership within societies or teams
- Creating inclusive and welcoming spaces
- Everyday kindness that uplifts others
- If someone makes university life better for others - they belong here
External Impact - Beyond the University
Celebrating members of our community who represent the University positively in the wider world.
This may include:
- Volunteering or charity work
- Community leadership
- Advocacy or social impact work
- Mentorship outside campus
- Service that reflects positively on our university
- If someone is making a difference beyond our walls - we want to celebrate that too
Know someone who deserves recognition?
Nominations are open to all current students and staff at the University of Derby.
You can nominate someone for:
- Showing kindness - big or small
- Making a positive difference
- Supporting others
- Demonstrating leadership
- Contributing to student or university life
- Representing the university positively beyond campus
- It only takes a few minutes to nominate someone
Meet Our DerbyStars
Each week, selected nominees will be featured here on our website and across Students’ Union platforms.
Each Featured DerbyStar Will Include:
- 📸 Photo (with consent)
- 👤 Full Name
- 🎓 Course / Department
- 🏛 Role (Student / Staff)
- 🌟 Category (Internal or External Impact)
- 💬 Personal Quote
- 🗣 Words from Nominators
- ✨ Why They Were Selected
Neve is one of the most incredible students I have had the opportunity to meet and work with. She is enthusiastic, proactive, and driven; she independently founded her own community group and over the past two years, has grown it into a thriving and sustainable community that continues to make a meaningful impact. She has served as President for two consecutive years, demonstrating strong leadership, commitment and the ability to build and support a dedicated committee team. Alongside this, she also works within the Union Blends commercial team, balancing her employment with her academic studies and leadership responsibilities.
Neve is a consistently dedicated student who volunteers her time to support Union events and actively engages in wider University initiatives whenever possible. She is passionate about representation and advocacy, and notably brought attention to the impact of the 2025 bus service changes on disabled students, ensuring their experiences and concerns were heard. Her ability to combine leadership, advocacy, and community-building makes her an outstanding role model within our student community.
— Josephine Langer
Solomon has been a father to the student community. Dedicated , firm and a sure guide to settling in and academic excellence. He is a great voice and a good anchor.
– Guiding of new students with academic rigours.
– Advocating for student learning.
– Being a support system to students who are overwhelmed.
— Vivian Udokwu
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can nominate?
Any current student or staff member at the University of Derby can nominate someone for a DerbyStars award.
Can students nominate staff?
Yes. Of course! We'd love our students to help recognise the efforts of staff at the University.
Can staff nominate students?
Absolutely. Staff work closely with students and see many of the great achievements that might otherwise go unacknowledged.
Can someone win more than once?
Yes. Continued positive impact deserves continued recognition. We encourage you to nominate as often as you see positive contributions.
Is there a prize?
Selected DerbyStars receive an official DerbyStars recognition badge from the Students’ Union and a feature on our celebration board, website, and social media platforms. Additional recognition opportunities may vary.
How often are winners announced?
Winners are announced weekly.
How many winners are selected each week?
Up to three students and three staff members can be selected each week.
What if I am nominated but not selected?
In some cases, nominations may be carried forward to the following week if the nominee is not selected in that round.