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Inspirational Graduate Receives Student Of The Year Commendation
Tuesday December 2nd, 2008
A Newcastle Business School graduate, who was paralysed from the waist down during his final year, has won a prestigious commendation for his inspiring success.
Craig Willis has received a commendation from the national Barclays Capital Xcel Business and Commerce Student of the Year Awards just one year after falling from a fifth-floor balcony while on holiday in Majorca.
The 23 year old, from Darras Hall, Ponteland, returned to Newcastle Business School, part of Northumbria University, just weeks after his accident and went on to achieve a first class degree this summer.
He will be presented with the award by Professor Peter Slee, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Region and Engagement at Northumbria University, on Thursday 4th December at Newcastle Business School, based in the award-winning City Campus East.
Craig Willis with Professor Peter Slee
Craig, who now works for Pricewaterhouse Coopers in Newcastle, said: “I was really surprised to be nominated for the award there are many people more deserving.
"After my accident it was hard to motivate myself but my degree gave me something to focus on.
"I would like to thank all of the staff and students who made it a fantastic experience for me. The support staff were amazing and they did everything they could do to help me."
Newcastle Business School Senior Lecturer Dorothy Fellows said "The word inspirational is overused but it is no exaggeration to say that Craig Willis deserves the epithet. A final year Undergraduate student on the Business Studies degree Craig had successfully completed his year long Industrial Placement when he was paralysed from the waist down as a result of an accident. He also suffered fractures to several ribs and to his right shoulder blade.
“What is remarkable is that he returned to undertake the final year of his studies just nine weeks later, having missed only the first two weeks of teaching.
"Despite the challenges of dealing with these circumstances, the painful physical effects of his injuries (including balancing difficulties) and the ongoing psychological adjustments required of him, Craig has performed remarkably in his academic studies.”
She added: “Craig’s academic achievements are only part of the story however. He maintained an incredibly positive attitude towards all his activities at the University, attending well and punctually, contributing to classes and being pro-active throughout."
"He has been an inspirational student and those who have taught and worked with him have been deeply impressed with the virtues he has demonstrated.”
Professor Peter Slee said, "Craig is an excellent candidate to receive the Xcel Student of the Year commendation. He has shown impressive commitment and determination in the face of difficult circumstances. He has been a credit to Northumbria University and truly deserves this recognition."
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