26 June 2024 
Bethany Hancock, CUBO Communications Officer
The 2024 CUBO Awards took place this month in Belfast, showcasing exceptional innovation and creativity in delivering the campus experience. These annual awards celebrate the remarkable achievements of commercial and campus services professionals within the higher education sector.
Nine universities were recognised for outstanding initiatives across a broad spectrum of campus services including catering, sport, conferencing, retail, accommodation and student experience.
This year saw the introduction of a new award category, the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Spotlight. This award acknowledges an institution demonstrating exceptional commitment to promoting EDI. The inaugural EDI award was presented to the University of the Arts London (UAL) for their establishment of an action-led EDI group, which has significantly revitalized LGBTQ+ visibility at UAL through strategic collaborations, training, and vibrant campus events.
Other winning entries include Manchester University’s partnership with Hazaar to reduce waste and save students money during the summer accommodation turnaround; the University of Nottingham’s work to increase sports engagement from Black and disabled students; and the University of Birmingham’s hosting of the 2023 IBSA World Blind Games.
“The CUBO Awards are a testament to the hard work and dedication of campus and commercial services teams who go above and beyond to ensure their students have the best possible experience,” said Melissa Browne, CUBO Awards Chair.
“We are immensely proud of this year’s winners and nominees, whose innovative and inclusive initiatives set a high standard for the entire sector. Their achievements not only reflect individual excellence but also inspire broader advancements in higher education.”
The awards ceremony was held during the CUBO Summer Conference at Queen’s University Belfast in Northern Ireland, where over 260 delegates from universities and CUBO commercial partners gathered. The conference provided a platform for networking, sharing best practice, and contributing to shaping the future of HE commercial services.
