23 June 2010
Campaigner for disabled awarded Chancellor's Medal
A hardworking student, who tirelessly raised awareness about disabled students in a bid to improve the support and facilities available to them at the University of Sheffield, has been awarded the Chancellor's Medal in recognition of his dedication.
Christopher Jesson, a BA Urban Studies and Planning student, who was diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome at the age of nine, has been selected to receive the annual award which recognises a final year student or recent graduate of the University who has achieved outstanding attainment in academic, sporting or personal achievements.
The diligent student was responsible for masterminding a number of important initiatives at the University, including the creation of a society to support students with autism and Asperger's Syndrome.
Christopher, aged 21, was also elected chair of the Disabled and Dyslexic Students´ Forum, a representative committee designed to provide a communicative and supportive network for disabled students.
Further activities Christopher has dedicated his time to include working with the Union of Students Education Officer and involvement with the Library User Group, as well as being a course representative and Chair for the Social Sciences Faculty Forum and a Departmental Union links contact.
Christopher, who has also penned his own autobiography detailing his experiences of living with Asperger's Syndrome in a bid to inspire and provide confidence to children and carers living with the condition, will now receive the Chancellor's Medal at his graduation ceremony next month (21 July 2010).
Christopher will now be continuing at the University to undertake a Masters in Urban Studies and Planning. He said: "Receiving the medal is a tremendous honour, and I continue to this day to work hard in the interest of equality and diversity. The University opened up a new field of opportunities to be involved in protecting the interests of students with a disability, at a time where I was becoming more robust to dealing with my own condition. It has been, and I am sure it will continue to be, a valuable chance to improve the student experience not only for students with additional support needs, but also to contribute to the wider student body."
Professor Keith Burnett, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Sheffield, said: "Christopher has made an outstanding contribution to the lives of students with disabilities at the University of Sheffield and he should be very proud of his tireless dedication to such a worthwhile cause. I am delighted to be presenting Christopher with this award and wish him every success in the future."
Notes for Editors: The Chancellor's Medal was founded by Lord Dainton of Hallam Moors, the University´s sixth Chancellor, who held office from 1978-1997 and is awarded to a final year student or recent graduate of the University in recognition of outstanding attainment in academic, sporting activities or in other personal achievements.
For further information please contact: Shemina Davis, Media Relations Officer, on 0114 2225339 or email shemina.davis@sheffield.ac.uk
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