Meet the team

Amy Adams 

My role
Based in Eastbourne, I oversee the university’s outreach offer to schools and colleges including parental engagement and information advice and guidance to students who would not traditionally consider university.

My background
Since graduating from University of Brighton in 2007, with a Social Science degree, I have been involved in education with young people – from youth work and sexual health advice to behaviour and attendance management in schools.

I was the first person in my family to attend university. Brighton was such a brilliant choice for me; I found people with similar interests and I felt I fit in. The degree challenged me to question most of my beliefs and changed my perspective. I chose to work for the university’s outreach team to share my experience of being from a low income family and how that didn’t hold me back from achieving at university.

Why University of Brighton?
As a University of Brighton graduate I understand the positive experience this university has on our students. The work-based approach to learning helped me understand the value of working with young people and the opportunities that a higher education degree can offer. Both as a student and staff member, the support available at Brighton is second to none.

My hobbies
My children, aged 4 and 1, keep me pretty busy, but I do find time for yoga and I am most happy spending my days at the beach on my kayak.

Ask me about

• The University of Brighton Outreach programme
• Parental engagement
• Advice and guidance for children in care who have not yet applied to university

Get in touch
I am based at the Eastbourne campus. Contact me on a.r.adams@brighton.ac.uk. I work Monday to Thursday. For queries relating to children in care email aboutuni@brighton.ac.uk.

Wendy Heasmer 

My role
Based in Eastbourne, I have been at the University of Brighton for 11 years and have previously led our primary school project work, taking Professor C Gull into local schools. I also chair the NEON primary working group, which brings together widening participation professionals from all over the UK.

My background
I went to Filsham Valley School and St Leonards Academy. I had no idea what I wanted to do, so I worked in Tesco pharmacy and opticians for several years. I saw an advert for the University of Brighton and ended up studying a degree in Applied Social Science. Best decision I ever made! During my degree I knew I wanted to work in education, probably as a careers advisor. I later worked as an information, advice and guidance youth worker, while finishing my degree, and had the interview for my job with the University of Brighton the same day as my graduation!

Why University of Brighton?
The University of Brighton changed my life because an academic at an open day spent time finding out what I loved about studying and encouraged me that university was for me. I strongly believe that the area you live in or school you attend should have no bearing on your future potential.

My hobbies
Outside of work, I have a very active toddler who keeps me busy when I am not at work. He is already quite the golfer and I can see myself spending evenings and weekends at golf clubs before too long!

Ask me about

• Our partnership work with schools and colleges in Sussex

Get in touch:
I am based at our Eastbourne campus. Email me on w.heasmer@brighton.ac.uk.

Johanna Harris 

My role
Based in Moulsecoomb, I manage relationships with colleges and secondary schools throughout Sussex delivering and developing a range of activities through the Widening Participation programme. I am particularly passionate about Saturday Clubs, especially Formula 24 Saturday Club which gives young people the opportunity to build and race cars. It’s amazing to watch them grow in confidence over the weeks and is so much fun. We are expanding the range of these clubs and I can’t wait to do more.

My background
I went to school in Crawley at one of the schools I now work with, so it’s been so lovely going back, encouraging students to make better choices.

I have always been involved with charity work and managed a Toy Library, as well as a volunteer-run playgroup for pre-school children. I was also Vice Chair of Governors at my children’s primary school.

I joined the university as an administrator in the outreach team before becoming a coordinator. It’s the best job in the world and I can’t imagine ever wanting to do anything else.

I am currently studying part-time for a Working with Children and Young People BA(Hons) at the University of Brighton and I love it! I will be in my fifties by the time I graduate but I’m determined to get there!

Why University of Brighton?
The University of Brighton is such a warm welcoming place. I feel so lucky to be here; I have been supported to reach my potential both as a member of staff and as a student. I know first-hand what a wonderful experience coming to Brighton represents for the young people I work with. It’s hard to keep up with all the amazing work to support the wider community, from law advice drop-ins, to art and performance opportunities to scientific research and environmental schemes.

My hobbies
When I’m not working or studying I love going to the gym to do pilates, boxing and weights. I also like to cook.

Ask me about

• The Widening Participation programme, including talks, conferences, university visits, taster lectures and workshops
• Talks to parents and carers and support parents’ evenings in order to give advice and guidance on student finance, student life and the application process

Get in touch
I am based at our Moulsecoomb campus in Brighton. Contact me on j.harris2@brighton.ac.uk.

James Barron 

My role
I am based at our city campus in Brighton. I have worked at the University for 4 years, initially as part of our enquiries team and on a number of projects including in-school based workshops, assemblies, campus visits and parents/carers evenings advising on university level study.

I have been in my current role since late 2019. A big part of my role is leading academic outreach activity within the university schools of art, architecture, media and humanities – focused on organising pre-16 Saturday Clubs and post-16 summer schools.

My background
I was born and raised in Brighton and attended school and college locally. I studied a BA in English and Drama at the University of Manchester. After graduating I returned home and worked for the local authority and then in language teaching before studying PGCE in Primary Education here at the University of Brighton.

I taught in a local primary school in Key Stage 2. After a career break working as cabin crew and travelling, I began working for the university. My background in education has made me passionate about working with young people and encouraging them to reach their full potential.

Why the University of Brighton?
The Brighton student experience is varied, innovative and prepares its graduates with the skills to succeed. We are a truly inclusive place and treat all current students and potential applicants as individuals. We are firmly committed to the principles of university outreach locally and nationally, and strongly believe that everyone should have the opportunity to study at higher level.

My interests
Outside work, I love British cinema, going to new exhibitions and galleries and travelling. I’m also a keen runner having completed three marathons and helped set up an LGBTQ+ running club in Brighton.

Ask me about

• Outreach support in schools and colleges
• Parents and carers events
• Campus visits
• Academic outreach for the arts and humanities
• Saturday Clubs and summer schools

Get in touch
I am based at Grand Parade on our City Campus in central Brighton. Email me on j.l.barron@brighton.ac.uk.

Laura Towers

My role
I am responsible for delivering a range of widening participation activities across schools and colleges in Hastings, Bexhill, and Rye, and providing information and support to young people making a decision about university. Another part of my role is coordinating academic outreach in the School of Health and Sport, and I also focus on planning and delivering the primary strand of the university’s outreach work.

My background
I attended university in Leicester and Sheffield, studying French and Spanish and Gender Studies. I moved to East Sussex in 2017, where I previously worked in the charity sector. I have always wanted to work with young people and have been very lucky to do this since the start of my career.

My last job was working in schools delivering a coaching and mentoring programme to young people to help them find the pathway they wanted to follow in life. It was here that I found a real interest in supporting students to make an informed decision about university, especially as I live in an area where many don’t consider going to university. This led me to the outreach team at the University of Brighton.

Why University of Brighton?
Working at the University of Brighton is a truly enjoyable experience and it is great to work with a team of people with shared values who care so much about working with and supporting young people. The opportunities that the University has available to staff, students, and prospective students are hugely varied and actively provide new ways to grow and develop.

My hobbies
Outside of work I like to try (and not always succeed at) as many creative hobbies as I can. At the moment you can probably find me watercolour painting, dressmaking, tap dancing, or crocheting – while also watching Netflix.

Ask me about

• Primary school outreach work
• Academic outreach for the School of Health and Sport Science

Get in touch
I am based at our Eastbourne campus. Contact me on L.Towers2@brighton.ac.uk

Amber Hanrahan

My role
Through my role in the Outreach team, I work with partner schools and colleges to give their students information, advice, and guidance around going to university. I organise and deliver activities, events, and 1-to-1 support in schools and colleges, as well as on our university campuses. Within the university, I work with the School of Art and Media and the School of Business and Law to arrange events on campus including Saturday clubs and summer schools. Throughout this work, my aim is to break down barriers to going to university.

My background
My professional background is in psychology, education, and children’s mental health. I have worked in a range of different roles throughout the education system, spanning from early years through to schools and colleges. Prior to starting with the University of Brighton, I worked in Widening Participation (WP) with another university where I initially developed my knowledge on outreach work. I also have personal experience of coming from a WP background myself, which gives me a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by students we work with.

Why University of Brighton?
The University of Brighton is a creative university, full of opportunity, and based in a beautiful location. The community here is welcoming and supportive and the facilities are great!

My hobbies
On my more active days, I like to go climbing, cycling, and sea swimming. On calmer days, I enjoy doing pottery and drawing. I am always up for trying something new!

Ask me about

• Outreach support in schools and colleges
• Academic outreach for the school of Art and Media and the school of Business and Law
• Saturday clubs and summer schools

Get in touch
I am based at our City Campus in central Brighton.
Email me at A.Hanrahan@Brighton.ac.uk.

Helen McGlead

Outreach operations coordinator

My role
Based in Moulsecoomb, I coordinate the operations of the outreach team and lead on marketing and communicating the various outreach events, projects and opportunities with Sussex secondary schools, colleges and sixth forms. My role focuses on supporting the incredible outreach coordinators in delivering outreach across the county.

My background
I am originally from South Africa and graduated from the University of Cape Town (UCT) in 2012 with a degree in environmental and geographical science and politics. I worked as a small group facilitator for first year health science students at UCT medical school, providing these students with support in becoming a health professional. I really loved working within a university environment and this led me to pursue a career in outreach in the UK.

I previously worked in, specifically, STEM outreach at the University of Brighton and helped run events like STEM in the park in Crawley and the Big Bang Fair South East. I also delivered STEM workshops in local schools to help inspire young people to consider STEM careers and absolutely loved being a part of these important interactions for young people.

Why University of Brighton?
I first moved to Brighton from South Africa in 2017 and absolutely fell in love with the city. I fully believe in the outreach mission statement at this university and am proud to be a part of the positive impact this team has in the community.

My hobbies
I am a keen crocheter who loves to weightlift. You can usually find me on a long walk on the downs with my partner and my little dog, Jenga.

Mike McGuire

My role
I work as the Data Administrator for the Outreach Team. My role involves ensuring all data relating to student activities is recorded on the Higher Education Access Tracker (HEAT) and to provide analysis and reports to assist in the evaluation of the Team’s work. HEAT is a national system for universities engaged in widening participation (WP) providing data management, analysis and reporting for their outreach activities.

My background
I had a long career working as a Performance Analyst for the National Crime Agency (NCA) and its precursor agencies which gave me a fascinating insight into the threat from serious and organised crime and the ongoing fight against it. Prior to this I worked for the Courts Service working at many courts in London dealing with legal professionals, defendants and the general public in a variety of roles. I moved to the Sussex coast in 1999 and have been here ever since.

Why University of Brighton?
After taking early retirement from the NCA, I was keen to take on a part-time job where I could use my skills and experience in a supporting role and this fitted the bill. I feel that it is important that as many people as possible have the opportunity to undertake a successful university education and so I am very happy to support the hard work of my colleagues in the Outreach Team in this aim.

My hobbies
I enjoy most sports, particularly football and cricket, although I just watch rather than play these days. I also play guitar and bass, mainly on my own for relaxation but sometimes in jam sessions with friends.

Ask me about
Any queries or issues relating to HEAT.

Contact me
I am based at our Moulsecoomb campus. Contact me on m.mcguire@brighton.ac.uk.

Lucy Jenner

My role
I am responsible for building relationships in widening participation in schools and colleges and supporting young people to consider their prospects, and the possibility of pursuing higher education. I do this through projects and events on campus or in schools/colleges, mostly in Brighton and West Sussex. I am based at the university’s Moulsecoomb campus. I work with the School of Applied Science but also help to support work with colleagues in other university Schools. I will also be responsible for leading our fantastic Saturday Clubs, which are free and run each year for secondary school students.

My background
I have worked in arts education most of my career, working in a secondary school as an Art Technician, as an Education Officer at an arts organisation promoting South Asian performance art and at an art and craft museum as their Learning and Public Programme Manager. I was the first to go to university in my family, and I came from a single-parent, low-income family. I studied Contemporary Applied Arts at the University of Cumbria. Having grown up in the South of England, I wanted to study in the North and explore new places. I was technically classed as a mature student when I started university at 21, having taken a few years out to work and travel. I also travelled after university, volunteering in India and Sri Lanka.

Why the University of Brighton?
In my role at the museum, I regularly worked with the University of Brighton. I enjoyed coordinating the live projects we collaborated on together. In addition, I was impressed by how the academics cared for their students, seeking new ways to engage with industry and supporting students to gain essential work experiences to help enhance their C.Vs.

My hobbies
I like swimming, visiting galleries and museums, and I run a night called Dancing in the Dark. Walking is my favourite pastime, and I hope my young family will enjoy it too so we can ramble together in the future. I have travelled extensively and dream of far-off lands regularly.

Ask me about
Saturday clubs and the school of applied science.

Contact me
I am based at Moulsecoomb compass.
Contact me on L.jenner2@brighton.ac.uk

Mel Lawrance

My role
As student recruitment officer, I manage the student recruitment team and student ambassador team. My role includes planning and managing our attendance at recruitment events across the UK and identifying new recruitment opportunities. I manage and develop the university's outreach partnerships with schools and colleges outside Sussex, while also delivering and developing our programme of online and face-to-face activity.

My background
I grew up in a small village in South Wales, and my family moved to a seaside town in Suffolk as a teenager. I studied English Literature and Philosophy at the University of East Anglia and loved the experience of meeting new people, trying (and sometimes failing) at new things, and working at the student union where there were always amazing bands playing. After some time working in East Anglia and London within local authorities and charities, I moved to Brighton to work for the Prince’s Trust. Managing partnerships and working with young people in that role provided me with the valuable skills I needed to move into my first role in Student Recruitment, and I’ve been for over 5 years now.

Why University of Brighton?
I am proud to work in an inclusive and friendly Recruitment and Outreach team.

The University is a great place to work because everyone is so passionate about supporting our students to succeed, from academics to student services, and everyone in between.

My interests
I have two young children who take up most of my spare time, so we spend a lot of time as a family on the South Downs on or the beach. But when they’re asleep I try to sew, paint or go to one of the many excellent pubs in Brighton.

Ask me about

• Our work with schools and colleges outside Sussex
• Student Recruitment and Outreach Student Ambassadors

Get in touch
I'm based at our Moulsecoomb site when on campus, but am often out of the office visiting schools and colleges and attending events. Email me on m.lawrance2@brighton.ac.uk.

Jasmin Panayi  

My role
As Student Recruitment Coordinator, I plan and attend recruitment events across the UK, such as HE fairs and UCAS events. I also develop the university’s partnerships with schools and colleges outside of Sussex, delivering our programme of talks and information and guidance sessions, both online and face-to-face. Alongside this, I am also involved with planning and supporting our Clearing activities every summer.

My background
I am a born and bred Brightonian! After A Levels, I spent some time living in Cyprus, working in a hotel entertainment team and managing the kid’s club. When I returned, I worked as a Teaching Assistant. I then decided to pursue a career in teaching and complete a degree in Primary Education. There’s no city quite like Brighton, so studying at the University of Brighton was a no brainer!

After university, I spent time working as a primary school teacher, before moving into a recruitment role, where I was helping graduates to find their first job. I missed working more closely with young people though, so decided to return to the university in my current role.

Why University of Brighton
As the first person in my family to go to university, I was worried I’d struggle academically and find it hard to fit in. As soon as I joined the University of Brighton though, I felt welcomed and incredibly supported to meet my potential. The community here is so diverse and inclusive, with every individual celebrated. I feel super lucky to be back, supporting the next generation of Brighton students!

My interests
Whilst I was studying at the University of Brighton, I joined the cheerleading team and fell in love with the sport. I stayed on the team for 5 years, working my way up to Head Coach. I was also selected to represent Team England at the Cheerleading World Championships in Florida. I’m now sadly retired from competing, but still enjoy attending dance classes. I’m also a lifelong Brighton and Hove Albion fan.

Ask me about

• Our talks and information and guidance sessions for post-16 students
• HE fairs and UCAS events

Get in touch
I'm based at our Moulsecoomb site when on campus, but am often out of the office visiting schools and colleges and attending events. Email me on j.panayi@brighton.ac.uk.

Hannah Lili Ferrigno

My role
In my role as Student Recruitment Assistant, I focus on post-16 students who are interested in studying at the University of Brighton. My role includes delivering talks about important university related information as well as attending HE Fairs at colleges and schools outside Sussex. I speak to students about the University of Brighton and answer any questions they may have. I also attend bigger fairs such as UCAS and UK University Search events around the country and help with internal University of Brighton events.

My background
I am originally from North London but grew up in Hertfordshire. I struggled with dyslexia whilst in school, so I was unsure if university was the right fit for me, but once I started studying my Business BTEC I knew that I wanted to further my knowledge and go to university. I have now finished my second year studying Business Management with Human Resource Management at The University of Brighton. I have found myself in this role by choosing to add a placement year to my degree; this is because I wanted to gain key industry experience but wanted to do more than just sit in an office. This role offers me that opportunity, as I get to travel to various higher education events around the UK. It also means that I get to live in Brighton an extra year which I’m quite excited about!

Why University of Brighton?
The main selling point for me was the flexibility within the courses offered at Brighton, most subjects contain optional modules which allows you to focus on your interests. This makes the courses more enjoyable as they feel tailored to you. Of course, being right next to the sea too is not something you can complain about!

My interests
I have always enjoyed playing netball and since being at university I have retaken up this passion through being a part of the netball society. With my friends we like exploring Brighton and getting a bite to eat.

Ask me about

• HE Fairs
• Student life

Get in touch
I'm based at our Moulsecoomb site when on campus, but am often out of the office visiting schools and colleges and attending events. Email me on h.ferrigno@brighton.ac.uk.