From legendary footballers, to Britain’s first female maritime engineers, Abertay University is looking for the top change-maker in its 130-year history.
As well as influential alumni, the Dundee institution is highlighting innovative courses and achievements as part of a project to celebrate 25 years since Abertay gained university status, in 1994.
The university has launched a public vote to choose its top change-maker, highlighting 25 of its most significant individuals and innovations.
Candidates include former student Victoria Drummond, who became Britain’s first female maritime engineer, legendary footballer and alum Maurice Malpas, the world’s first ethical hacking degree, launched at Abertay and the university’s science-based nursing degree, the first of its kind in Scotland.
Also featured is Nani Bhusan Ghose, who left Calcutta in 1947 to study just manufacture in Dundee, paving the way for international students, and Lily Miller, Dundee’s first town councillor.
The work of students from the Dundee Institute of Technology to help stop HMS Unicorn rotting has also been recognised.
Abertay archivist Ruaraidh Wishart said: “This has been an exciting project to work on, and has allowed us to spotlight individuals who have made an impact not only on Abertay, but on Dundee and the world.
“Not only have we uncovered individual stories of achievement that we weren’t aware of, we’ve uncovered new details of stories we already did know about.”
The shortlist for Abertay 25: Dundee’s Change-makers – Our Contribution to Technology and Industry, was chosen by 250 pupils from local secondary schools, helped by research work by the university.
The winner will be announced on March 2.
Abertay public engagement officer Hope Busak said: “I’d like to thank our volunteers, young ambassadors and the schools they attend for getting involved in this project.
“Not only has their work been invaluable, their enthusiasm has been infectious.”
Vote at www.abertay.ac.uk/about/the-university/archive/first-of-abertays-firsts/
