Cullybackey native wins national awards for his contribution to enterprise education

Chris Shannon, Enterprise & Entrepreneurship Manager at Ulster University

Chris Shannon is among six educators from across the UK who have been awarded for making transformational impact in the field of Enterprise Education.

The National Enterprise Educators Awards recogniseexcellence within enterprise and entrepreneurship education across the UK and the winners were announced late September during a virtual awards ceremony.

Chris Shannon, who was educated at Cullybackey College, won the ‘Rising Star in Enterprise Education’ award for the transformational impact he has made since taking up the role of Enterprise and Entrepreneurship Manager at Ulster University in 2017.

The award is to recognise the work of ‘an exceptional individual at the early stage of their enterprise or entrepreneurship education career within Higher or Further Education, who is making an exceptional contribution while demonstrating transformational impact locally and abroad.’

At the event Chris was also awarded ‘Influencing Fellowship of EEUK’ by Lord Bilimoria, Founder and Chairman of Cobra Beer, President of Confederation of British Industry and Patron of Enterprise Educations UK. Making Chris the first EEUK Fellow on the island of Ireland.

Fiona McElroy, Head of Innovation and Impact at Ulster University, nominated Chris for the award. She commended his efforts over the past few years saying,

“This award and fellowship appointment are both testament to the exceptional work Chris has delivered since taking up his role in 2017. He has personally supported the creation of hundreds of new businesses, engaged thousands of students in entrepreneurial activities and influenced policy at an institutional and regional level.

“His drive and enthusiasm has led to transformational impact locally with international interest and recognition. Massive congratulations to Chris!”

About National Enterprise Educator Awards

The National Enterprise Educator Awards, organised by Enterprise Educators UK, recognise excellence within enterprise and entrepreneurship education in UK higher and further education. The aim is to reward and celebrate those who have demonstrated an exceptional and inspirational commitment to supporting student and graduate entrepreneurship.