Issue #52: February 2026

Innovation with Purpose: Supporting Students in Changing Times

This issue invites us to reflect on how innovation and impact intersect across higher education. As professional services teams navigate financial constraint, rising expectations and rapid technological change, the challenge is clear: how do we work smarter while keeping the student experience at the centre?

This month, we begin by recognising LGBT+ History Month, with this year’s theme of Science and Innovation. HE has long been shaped by LGBTQIA+ scientists and innovators, often without full recognition. We encourage you to explore Stonewall’s resource hub and consider how inclusive innovation continues to shape our campuses today.

Our first feature, from Dr Helena Lim, Academic Lead at evasys, explores how institutions are repurposing existing digital platforms, reducing costs and administrative burden at a time when teams are stretched. It’s a practical example of using what we already have to do less with less, and to do it better.

We then turn to student support in practice. Jake Harding, Student Enrichment Manager at Manchester Metropolitan University, reflects on the operational journey behind Manchester Met’s Times Higher Education Award for Outstanding Support for Students. His insights remind us that meaningful impact is not just strategy on paper, but built through thoughtful design, co-creation and consistent delivery.