St Andrews University tickled pink to be up for top equality award

St Andrews University is in the pink.

The ancient institution is one of 10 UK organisations shortlisted for the PinkNews public sector equality award 2018.

It will vie for the title alongside the House of Commons, Royal Navy and Royal Marines and Transport for London.

The award recognises the contributions of public sector organisations in championing the inclusion and rights of LGBT+ employees and those in the wider community.

This year marks the sixth year of the PinkNews awards as well as 30 years since the passing of Section 28.

Professor Sally Mapstone, St Andrews’ principal, said: “The University of St Andrews aspires to be a leading light in equality and diversity.

“To be shortlisted for the equality award is a wonderful endorsement of the progress we have been making.

“We work hard as a community to develop an inclusive culture that values all staff and students, promotes respect, courtesy and friendliness and eliminates gender bias.”

St Andrews is the only Scottish university to have achieved LGBT+ charter recognition, and has developed Diverse St Andrews as a central theme in its new strategy.

Prof Mapstone added: “We believe that St Andrews is a place where people should be able to fulfil their potential to the maximum, encouraged and supported by the institution, whatever they do and whoever they are.”

Benjamin Cohen, chief executive of PinkNews, said: “We were very impressed with the University of St Andrews’ nomination for this year’s PinkNews awards.”

He said the awards aim to celebrate the great progress made by individuals and organisations to progress LGBT+ rights, championing the efforts of those in the fight for equality for all.

The winner will be announced on Wednesday October 17.