A Lancaster University computer science student has received a ‘Gold Award’ from a professional body.

Tim Clark, a third year undergraduate computer science student, received the award, along with a prize of £1,000, from The Worshipful Company of Information Technologists (WCIT) at a special ceremony held in London.

The WCIT awards are judged on criteria such as academic excellence, entrepreneurial skills and an individual’s contribution to a charity or community.

Mr Clark is the current President of the Lancaster University’s student Computer Society. He has helped, along with colleagues and academic staff, to initiate closer contact between the society and the University’s School of Computing and Communications. One tangible outcome of this is a new peer mentoring system with undergraduate students providing academic assistance to students in the years below them.

In addition to being involved in the mentor scheme, Mr Clark has also helped to run sessions for new students in the University’s ‘Welcome Week’, as well as representing the Computer Society on visit days and open days for prospective students. He has also helped to provide regular training for undergraduate students through an ‘Internet Café’.

Under his leadership the Computer Society has secured sponsorship from companies and has successfully registered as a British Computer Society Student Chapter.

He was nominated for the award by Dr Paul Rayson, the Undergraduate Director of Studies at Lancaster University’s School of Computing and Communications.

He said: “I was especially proud and pleased to nominate Tim for the 2020 WCIT University IT Award. His limitless energy and leadership, along with the other members of the Computer Society and UG reps, have helped us forge a much closer relationship with the undergraduate student cohort over the last three years in order to improve the whole student experience.”

Dr Stefan Fafinski, Chair of WCIT Charity, said: “Tim fully deserves the 2020 WCIT University IT Award, showing not only fine academic achievement, but entrepreneurship, leadership and wider commitment to technology learning and research. Although we are a City of London Livery Company Charity, we care about our industry throughout whole of the UK, and are delighted to recognise technology excellence in the North West.”

Tim Clark said: "I am truly astounded by my win. I try to get as involved in university life as possible, and I'm really pleased I am able to make even a small difference! I’d like to extend my deepest gratitude to all of the exec members, PASS Leaders, teaching assistants and numerous other staff who have worked alongside me for the last few years."

Professor Adrian Friday, Head of Lancaster University’s School of Computing and Communications, said: “I'm absolutely delighted for Tim. This award in some small way recognises Tim's boundless enthusiasm, commitment, and the myriad times he goes out of his way to support his fellow students, the school and the University. Richly deserved."

The Worshipful Company of Information Technologists is the 100^th Livery Company of the City of London. More than 800 leading IT professionals belong to the company from all segments of the wide ranging IT sector.