An Orkney-based academic has been named as the University of the Highlands and Islands’ ‘Best Research or Dissertation Supervisor’.

Ragnhild Ljosland a Nordic Studies lecturer at the Centre for Nordic Studies UHI, was nominated for the accolade by students in the Highlands & Islands Student Association (HISA) Awards.

Ragnhild was praised for her ‘genuine and contagious’ enthusiasm and for making everyone feel at ease when interacting online.

One student explained:

“she is always going the extra mile for me to make sure I achieve the best results possible. She helped me a great deal in winning funding for my course, without which I would have been unable to attend, and she even helped me find a flat after my lease fell through”.

Another student said:

“Raggie has been encouraging, and challenging in a pleasant and friendly way. She gives the impression that she has confidence in me to complete the work, and she expresses enthusiasm for and a sense of engagement in what I trying to do.”

To recognise her success, Ragnhild will be presented with a trophy and certificate on behalf of the University’s students.

Speaking of her award, she said:

” I am very happy and grateful to receive this award. The students who I teach and supervise bring me so much joy. Being able to help them achieve the best they can makes my job meaningful. I take this award as a sign that the appreciation and regard my students and I have for each other is 

Dr Ljosland was not the only Orkney UHI staff member to be recognised in the HISA Awards. Dr Sarah Jane Gibbon was ‘Highly Commended’ by students studying at the University of the Highlands and Islands Archaeology Institute for her work as research and dissertation supervisor. Sarah Jane, lecturer in archaeology at the UHI Archaeology Institute, was praised for her “patience and genuine interest” in students’ work.

One student explained:

“ Sarah Jane was always available for me to email and ask something. Her feedback was always invaluable, and made me feel as though she was thoroughly interested in my work, not simply because I was her student, but because I was a fellow academic.”

Speaking of her award, Sarah Jane said:

“It is such an exciting time to be engaged in teaching and research at the University of the Highlands and Islands Archaeology Institute. Students are always encouraged to develop their own ideas and build a deep understanding of archaeology and it is such an honour to have our efforts recognised by the student body. Thank you.”

The University of the Highlands and Islands was one of the first UK institutions to introduce student-led teaching awards. The initiative, now in its eighth year, recognises excellence in ten categories, with winners coming from around the university partnership. Other staff and students who have received accolades this year are:

Most Inspiring Lecturer

Thomas Garnham – Inverness College UHI

 Most Engaging Video Conference Tutor

Dr Andrew Jennings – Centre for Nordic Studies (Shetland) UHI

 Most Engaging Online Tutor

Tara Morrison – Inverness College UHI

 Best Assessment Feedback

Frances Dick – Perth College UHI

 Best Personal Academic Tutor

Judith Munro – Inverness College UHI

 Best Academic Support

Heather McNeill – West Highland College UHI

 Best Support Staff

Maureen Mackenna and Judi Worthington – Argyll College UHI

 Best Engagement with the Student Voice – Staff

Lindsay Henderson – North Highland College UHI

 Best Engagement with the Student Voice – Student

Scott Anderson – Argyll College UHI

 Best Contribution to Clubs and Societies

Joe Penhaul Smith – SAMS UHI

 Best Class Representative

Sheila Bowie – Inverness College UHI

 Outstanding Lecturer of the Year

Matt Sillars – Inverness College UHI

 Outstanding Contribution to HISA

Dr Iain Morrison – University of the Highlands and Islands