Students test fundraising skills in event management challenge

Students on the Tourism and Event Management course were asked to plan, stage and deliver a fundraising event as part of their studies.

Any money raised has gone towards the Steven Henly Award for Outstanding Commitment - just one of the bursaries the University offers as part of its £3m provision to enable people from all financial backgrounds to have access to higher education.

One group organised a speed-dating event and raffle. Group member Latoya said: “We organized a speed dating event to raise money and help the students break the ice.”

Dr Nazia Ali, Senior Lecturer in Tourism & Event Management said: “Through this assignment the students learn practical skills that are essential for employability and future work. Students learned about project management, negotiation, fundraising and dealing with possible pitfalls in a real life scenario.”

Students had to critically review the costs and benefits of staging a fundraising event. The event had to be small-scale and at no financial cost to the students. Other planned events include a Zumba Class, ‘Take Me Out’ type show, games tournament and a football tournament.

Last year, students raised £194 for the Steven Henly Award and this year the students are hoping to double the figure.

Bedfordshire student Steven Henly died of a rare form of cancer in July 2008, just a few weeks after his 21st birthday. It was during the second year of his BA Physical Education (QTS) course that he developed the cancer that ended his life. Steven died before completing the course, but awarded a posthumous Diploma of Higher Education.

As a tribute his parents, Zahra and Bob, have established an annual cash prize at the University, which is given to a third-year student who demonstrates the same sort of commitment and dedication to sport shown by Steven.