The Dunelmensis Award is given by the University’s Senate to a Durham alumnus or alumna for meritorious and exceptional service in support of the University, particularly for our institutional advancement and for enhancing the University’s reputation, nationally and internationally.
Congratulations to our Dunelmensis Award winners 2024:
Kate Davies (German, Collingwood College, 1977-81)
In addition to generous philanthropic giving which spans decades, Kate has been a member of Collingwood’s College Advisory Board since its inception. This involves attendance at termly meetings but, equally importantly, ready accessibility and availability for consultation and advice. Kate also regularly participates in College and University events held both in Durham and London and supports both Collingwood and other Durham University students through mentoring. With a particular area of expertise and interest in the Arts, Kate has guided and supported several leading music and theatre students.
Kate’s respect for, and generosity towards, our students and her drive to help them aspire and achieve, make her an exceptional role model for our students.
Ralph Grayson (History, Hatfield College, 1984-87)
For more than a decade Ralph has been extremely active across College, Department and University levels in supporting strategically valuable areas of the University’s portfolio. Ralph combines his support of Durham University and Hatfield College with his passion for widening participation. He supports Hatfield First Generation Scholars (FGS), providing mentoring and introductions for FGS students interested in careers in London. Several students have undertaken practice interviews at the City head hunting firm he co-founded, which has resulted in eight Hatfield FGS students undertaking salaried internships with the firm. They have connected with Durham graduates, facilitating entry into the graduate job market.
As an alumnus of the Business School, Ralph is a regular contributor to Board Room Exercises for the Business School’s MBA programme. With more than three decades’ relevant experience, Ralph brings an extraordinary depth and breadth of professional experience to inform his guidance for current students.
