Jane: Tell us a bit about who you are and what your role is at the university?

My name is Helen Stringer and I am the Director of Employability and Student Success. I work with a fantastic group of colleagues across the university to help students develop their employability, and leave Bath feeling confident and prepared for the future

Jane: What do you like best about working at the University?

There is a genuine sense of community - and authenticity - which is hard to contrive. It’s not particularly hierarchical and people are friendly and accessible. The students are great too – energetic, thoughtful, engaging. They are such a credit to the institution.

Jane: In 2024, you were a recipient of a Staff Recognition Award. Can you tell us more about what you got the award for?

I received the award for “manager/leader of the year” – both nomination and award were a wonderful surprise. Leadership roles are a privilege but can be challenging – I’m still on the journey of learning and self-discovery! We have been through a fair amount of change and that can be bumpy, but it’s rewarding to work with people who share the vision and are so committed to making the Bath experience even better for our students.

Jane: What sorts of things do you do for the community and what motivates you to get involved in helping members of our community?

Throughout my professional life, I have tried to be available to others, and lend an ear. I have benefitted hugely from others’ wisdom, experience and insights, and hope I can return the favour. I’ve mentored people from all walks of life, at all stages, in both a formal and informal capacity – I’d love to do more here at Bath. I find it incredibly motivating helping others flourish and succeed.

Jane: If someone is reading this and wants to get more involved in community activities at the University, where should they start?

There are plenty of networks and groups, and despite its relatively small size, Bath works hard to be both diverse and inclusive. I’m a member of the Senior Women’s Network and although I don’t attend as many meetings as I’d like, it’s a wonderful source of insight and information. But there are other ways to nurture that sense of belonging and community – why not simply invite someone for coffee and a chat. The 4W café often feels like the engine room of the university!

Jane: If you had a magic wand, what one thing would you change at the University to build a greater sense of community?

Perhaps some form of intranet or SharePoint space that coheres news, social events, updates into one central space.

Jane: What does community and inclusion mean to you?

Sharing a common goal or purpose, and sense of unity. Being accepted – and accepting of others. Genuine inclusion allows space for healthy disagreement and dissent. And those wonderful idiosyncrasies that make people so special.

Jane: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Do what is right, not what is easy. Sometimes it’s easier to say yes, when you want to say no, or stay silent when you should speak up. I also really like the Baz Luhrmann “Sunscreen” song, adapted from a hypothetical commencement speech to the class of ’97. I realise I’ve now dated myself, but if you don’t know it….look it up! He’s right about sunscreen.

Jane: Can you tell us something about you that might surprise people?

No – I’d prefer to keep them guessing…