Graduate recognised for voluntary work in Rwanda with academic excellence award

A Clinical Nurse who volunteers in Rwanda has been awarded the 'Florence Nightingale Award for Academic Excellence' from the University of Derby.

Ian Ellwood volunteers at a charity called ‘Les Enfants de Dieu' which translates as Children of God, a non-profit organisation helping street children in Kigali, Rwanda.

Ian now works at the Queen's Medical Centre in Nottingham as a Clinical Nurse. The award recognises students that have displayed dedication, hard work and compassion throughout their studies.

Ian Ellwood, who is to graduate this month with an Advanced Diploma in Nursing Studies from the University of Derby said: “I was really excited to be presented with the Florence Nightingale Award. During my time at the University I received great support from all of the Nursing team.”

Brian Boag, Senior Lecturer in Healthcare Leadership and Management at the University of Derby added: “Ian has been a dedicated and hardworking student, demonstrating the very values which underpin both nursing and the University. He sought to inspire those around, innovate practice through his care, and has improved and developed his own skills in health care.

“Ian approached his three years with dignity dedication and humour, and gave back to the University as much as we have given him. He was a real partner in education, and I and the whole team wish him the very best for the future.”

The University hosted a special awards ceremony for the nursing students, where Ian was presented with the award as he is unable to attend his graduation ceremony due to work commitments.

Around 3,400 graduates who studied at the University of Derby's seven Colleges – covering education, health and social care, business, life and natural sciences, engineering and technology, the arts; and law, humanities and social sciences – and almost 12,000 family, friends and other guests will attend the three days of the Awards Ceremonies from January 14 to 16 at the new Derby Arena in Pride Park.