Heather Smith

I have strategic oversight of all of the University's widening participation projects and work closely with our officers who lead on delivery. Our outreach projects and activities all have an underlying aim of supporting students from underrepresented groups to make informed decisions about their future. The work our team does is varied but include things like mentoring, in-school workshops, residential summer schools and visits to York St John.

I started working in higher education in 2017, not long after graduating with a degree in Law. I've been in my role as Widening Participation Manager since 2022. I'm passionate about working to address inequality of opportunity and ensuring everyone has an equal chance to access, attend, achieve and succeed in higher education.

Outside of work, I enjoy running, spending time with my young family and as a Scarborian, I'm happiest when at the coast.