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This spring, we proudly welcomed more than 50 donor-funded scholars to UEA’s Annual Scholarship Reception 2025 – an evening of celebration, connection and shared purpose. Held in the heart of campus, the event brought together scholars, donors, staff, and senior leaders to honour both the achievements of our students and the generosity of those who make their journeys possible.
This year’s reception was particularly special – the first to be held since the launch of UEA’s ambitious new fundraising campaign, Dare to Do Different. Scholarships sit at the core of the campaign’s ‘Campus’ pillar, which sees a bold future for UEA: one where physical spaces, student support, and creative opportunity come together to help students thrive.
As the Vice-Chancellor noted in his opening remarks, “When we invest in scholarships, we’re investing in a campus where every student feels they belong – and where bold ideas, hard work and talent are given the space to flourish.” His words reminded guests that philanthropy is not just about funding – it’s about fostering potential and shaping futures.
One of the evening’s most powerful moments came from Boakye D. Alpha, a Global Voices Scholar from Ghana studying Creative Writing. His moving speech reflected on the impact of his scholarship:
“That single second changed the trajectory of my life,” Alpha told guests. “This scholarship isn’t just financial support. It’s belief. It’s a ripple effect. It means I can dedicate this year to completing my debut novel – and to daring to dream out loud.”
Alpha’s words captured what so many scholars feel: that a scholarship is not simply a gift – it’s a turning point.
You can watch Alpha’s speech on YouTube.
We are also proud to share the full transcript of Alpha’s speech – reproduced with his permission.
This year’s Scholarships Brochure, launched at the event, features this year’s full cohort of scholars supported through philanthropic giving, along with their scholarships and programmes of study. Among them are several scholarships appearing in the brochure for the first time.
It also features UEA’s role as a University of Sanctuary - reflecting UEA’s commitment to supporting displaced students and those seeking refuge. These additions expand our mission to widen access and support students from all walks of life.
The Scholarship Brochure also includes personal messages from Vice-Chancellor Professor David Maguire and Chair of UEA Council Dr Sally Howes OBE. Their words speak to the value of scholarships, and the enduring power of collective community support.
“Together,” writes the Vice-Chancellor, “we are changing the world.”
We invite you to explore the 2025 Scholarship Brochure, meet this year’s scholars, and see the impact of donor support first-hand on our website.
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