Celebration of Volunteering 2026
Nominations are now open for the 2026 Celebration of Volunteering! This awards scheme recognises and celebrates members of our University community who have dedicated themselves to volunteering.
Students are eligible for three award categories this year, including brand new awards for 2026:
- Reading Students’ Union Activist of the Year – new this year, this award recognises students who have made a difference through activism or advocacy, driving change locally, nationally, or internationally.
- Student Volunteer of the Year – this award recognises a student that has gone above and beyond in a voluntary role, whether on or off campus.
- Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Volunteer of the Year – this award recognises a student who has made an outstanding contribution to EDI through volunteering.
On 17 March 2026 it will be 100 years since the University of Reading was granted a Royal Charter and became a university. To celebrate our Centenary, we have created a special award, the Centenary Long Service Award, which celebrates those who have demonstrated their dedication to volunteering by delivering outstanding and impactful volunteering for a period of five years or longer. This could be in one volunteering role or across different volunteering opportunities. All nominees who meet this criteria will receive a certificate and be part of a special Centenary exhibition.
Nominations are now open and you can nominate yourself or another person for any of the award categories. The Celebration of Volunteering website contains more information and helpful guidance on how to write a great nomination.
Nominations close at midnight on Friday 30th January. You can submit a nomination now at the Celebration of Volunteering website.
Shortlisted nominees and winners will be invited to the Celebration of Volunteering event, taking place on Thursday 7 May 2026.
The event will bring together volunteers from across the University community to present our volunteering awards. It promises to be an evening full of celebration, recognition, and inspiring stories about our community’s impact.
If you have any questions, please email volunteer@reading.ac.uk.