National Volunteer Week June 2024: Celebrating our Alumni Volunteers

Part one: Liz Sproat

This week we will be celebrating and highlighting some of the amazing work that our alumni volunteers do in support of our University of Hull community.  For some it may be a one off such as speaking at an event or for others it may be longer term e.g. volunteering for the Student Futures Career E-Mentoring Programme.  Which ever way that time is given we appreciate every moment of it!

Today we shine the spotlight on Liz.  Liz graduated from the University of Hull in 1994. Since then she’s worked in the commercial education space for super brands such as Google and Lego. In 2023, she set up her coaching business specialising in leadership and development coaching mainly in the education and technology sector.  Liz was a panel speaker at our Inspired in Hull: Beyond International Women’s Day event in April 2024.

Please could you tell us what motivated you to give your time back to the University of Hull?

As a female leader who’s led a rewarding and challenging career, I wanted the opportunity to share my journey with the goal of inspiring others to do the same. I also found the opportunity to meet with other alumni this year really rewarding and inspiring.

What do you enjoy most about your volunteering at the University of Hull?

Working with the alumni team at the University is really rewarding. They are a dedicated and committed group who always make me feel both welcomed and valued. In addition, I loved hearing the stories of other alumni from Hull. It was really inspiring to hear how others have made an impact in the world – whether as an overseas correspondent, England football and cricket player or business academic.

What do you think are the benefits of volunteering?

Connecting with fellow alumni. Feeling that you’re able to ‘give back’ in some way. Going back to Hull and seeing how the university has changed but also stayed the same!

 Please could you describe what connection you feel towards the University of Hull and its staff and students today?

I feel a really positive connection to the university and its community. As a student, I recall the overwhelming sense of friendliness and that aspect of Hull hasn’t changed a bit!

Would you recommend being a volunteer to your fellow University alumni?

Yes!

Has Liz inspired you to become an alumni volunteer? To find out more email Jill Smithson, Alumni Volunteer Coordinator at alumni@hull.ac.uk or Interested in being an alumni volunteer – sign up here