The University of York has been shortlisted for University of the Year in the Times Higher Education (THE) Awards 2021.
The award recognises universities that have demonstrated “exceptional performance” during the 2019-20 academic year, and the winner is set to be announced at a ceremony on 25 November.
In its award submission, the University highlighted its response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the Emergency Student Support Fund, which was the first of its kind in the country, and collaboration across the City of York.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Charlie Jeffery, said: “I have always been proud of how our community came together to respond to the pandemic.
“By looking out for each other and by working with our partners across the city and beyond, we showed how a community can channel this spirit of empathy and support into something extraordinary.
“Our shortlisting reflects a very proud moment, of a university and its city coming together to respond to a global crisis in the best way it can.”
The University’s submission also highlighted the contributions of students throughout the pandemic, including through volunteering, fundraising and campaigning.
YUSU President Patrick O’Donnell said: “I am delighted that York has been shortlisted, it truly reflects the vibrant, supportive and inclusive community we celebrate at York.
“Despite all the challenges faced over the last 18 months, students and staff have worked together to ensure that campus life has continued to thrive, and that all members of our University community are supported.
“We can be very proud of all that we have achieved by working together to seek creative and innovative solutions, with students at the heart of decision making.”
This is the 17th year of the THE Awards, which recognise the best of UK higher education across 20 categories.
Times Higher Education Editor John Gill said: “This year’s awards will reflect a period of turmoil and innovation necessitated by the pandemic, making it quite unlike any previous year.
“With almost 600 institutions, teams and individuals nominated, it really is a fantastic achievement to make it onto this year’s shortlist.
“We look forward to celebrating the incredible response of university staff in exceptionally tough circumstances when we gather for the Oscars of higher education in November.”