2024 Alumnus of the Year award conferred at Cumbria's university graduation ceremonies

University of Cumbria’s 2024 Alumnus of the Year is Helen Statham, a Carlisle-based PR and social media expert. She is co-director of Intro PR and Social Media based on Paternoster Row in Carlisle city centre. 

Helen graduated with a BA (Hons) degree in Event Management from the university’s Brampton Road campus ten years ago. Helen was a diligent student achieving a first class honours degree. Encouraged by tutor Laura Baxter, Helen’s ethos was to say yes to every opportunity that came her way meaning she also came away from university with two years of work experience in her field. 

It was this industry experience with Cumbrian Newspapers which led to a dream job after graduating, working for arts and entertainment website Cumbria Live. Helen built up her social media expertise over the years before finally deciding to go freelance in 2017.  

Along with co-director Nick Turner, a former editor at Cumbrian Newspapers, she created Intro PR and Social Media which now employs 12 staff. Intro is an innovative and creative agency working with many local organisations most notably with The Cumberland on the Kinder Shop, the very first shop that people paid in kindness generating over 2,000 volunteer hours and lots of positive publicity.

Upon receiving her award, Helen said: 

"This award is really important to me. Looking back to see all those that have been awarded this before, they are pretty amazing and being included with them feels really good. It’s also pretty cool to be looking back at all the things that I’ve done to get here, from graduating and all these achievements and bringing it all together - it’s been pretty special.

"The University of Cumbria is really important to me. It changed the direction of my life. Going back to study led to so many opportunities. I’ve met so many amazing people that I’m still in touch with today. The university is very close to my heart."

Watch Helen's full interview here or using the link below. 

Joanne Lusher, Alumni Relations Officer said:

“Helen is such an inspiration to new students and recent graduates, an excellent student, creative and driven. She knew what she wanted to do and went for it, with attitude and determination she does prove that we can achieve our biggest ambitions in life. I’m thrilled that Helen has won this year’s award, she is an excellent ambassador for the university and I look forward to working together in the future.” 

ENDS