Loughborough University is a headline sponsor for the event this year, and Pro Vice-Chancellor for Teaching and Student Experience Professor Rachel Thomson has also been named a judge. 

Professor Thomson was a previous double winner at the awards in 2018, collecting the ‘Outstanding Woman in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM)' award as well as the overall award, ‘Inspirational Female Leader of the Year’.  

Professor Thomson commented: “I was delighted, humbled and a little surprised to win two awards at the East Midlands Women’s Awards back in 2018, especially given the amazing contributions of many award recipients across the region. The awards dinner was a really lovely evening and I was fortunate to be able to celebrate with family and friends. 

“I think, especially post pandemic, it has become even clearer to me how important it is to celebrate our successes and of those around us.  

“We have so many fantastic colleagues who make Loughborough the University it is today – I hope that you will consider nominating them so that we can recognise their achievements alongside others across the region.” 

There are 15 categories available this year, including Outstanding Woman in Professional Services, Outstanding Woman in Education, and Outstanding BAME Female Leader.  

Nominations will close on 30 June, after which the judging panel will convene to shortlist.  

The winners will be announced at a prestigious awards ceremony on Friday 22 September, 2023 at the Heart of England Centre in Coventry.