Why we nominate exceptional alumni for Dunelmensis Awards

We have recently opened the nominations for the 2026 Dunelmensis Awards. The Dunelmensis Award is the University’s highest honour given to alumni in recognition of the significant contribution an alumna or alumnus has made to their College, Department or the University, which demonstrates exceptional service. Exceptional service is described as: 

• Significant, transformational activity over a sustained period which underpins or supports the wider aims and objectives of the University strategy.  

• An activity that significantly enhances the University’s reputation nationally or internationally. 

There were two recipients of the awards in 2025, Dr Tahani Al Terkait (Politics, Ustinov College, 2018) and James Riley (Geography, University College, 1979-1982).  

Offering thanks to our recipients 

The awards are not only beneficial to those receiving the award, but also to the nominee, project of initiative that they have contributed to so well. They raise the profile of collective endeavours by shining a spotlight on some of the many incredible University projects. They are an opportunity for the department, college or project lead to offer thanks for what is often years of commitment and support.    

Advocating for the University in new territories 

Dr Tahani Al Terkait graduated almost ten years ago from our School of Government and International Affairs (SGIA) as their first Al-Sabah Programme Doctoral Fellow. Since then, she has been a loyal and supportive advocate of Durham University. She has repeatedly helped our internationalisation mission in the Gulf, using her influence to open doors for us in her native country, Kuwait, and elsewhere in the Gulf. 

James Riley has supported the University for more than a decade. He is an exceptional ambassador and advocate for Durham, and his activity has enhanced the University’s reputation in Hong Kong and beyond. 

Image (L-R): Dr Katie Harland-Edminson, Dr Tahani Al Terkait and Professor Karen O'Brien

Building alumni connections 

James is committed to building our alumni community in Hong Kong and around the world. He has supported multiple engagement events both in-person and online, even opening his home to alumni and friends in Hong Kong, giving them the chance to meet and network with each other. 

"James has been a dedicated alumnus, supporter and friend of the University and his College over a sustained period. His contributions have been transformational and significant in helping the University to achieve its strategic goals."

Dr Wendy Powers, Principal, University College. 

James was a member of our Campaign Board from 2020 to 2024, helping lead the development of a major fundraising Campaign to culminate in the University’s bicentenary year of 2032. Before this, he served as the inaugural Chair of a Durham University Asia Pacific (APAC) Development Board, connecting with fellow alumni and encouraging engagement. 

Tahani has been heavily involved in the promotion of engagement with our alumni communities in the Gulf and has volunteered to manage our considerable alumni network in that part of the world.  

Image (L-R): Dr Wendy Powers, James Riley, Dr Katie Harland-Edminson

Offering professional credibility to our partnerships 

Tahani was instrumental in hosting a delegation of four Professors to Kuwait in April 2025 and arranging meetings at two major universities, and with the leadership of the Kuwait Diplomatic Institute (KDI), resulting in a diplomatic training partnership between SGIA and the KDI. Last June she arranged for the VIP visit of the Gulf Cooperation Council's Secretary General and GCC delegation to Durham, which was their first to an UK university by the GCC's leadership. 

"Tahani is a shining Durham University star and her exceptional service is recognised by a grateful community of academics and students as well as institutionally."

Professor Anoush Ehteshami, Nasser al-Mohammad al-Sabah Chair in International Relations, School of Government and International Affairs.  

Supporting our students 

James has 30 years' experience in hotel management, culminating in being Chief Executive Officer of Mandarin Oriental Hotels Group. He has used his influence and extensive network to support the Durham 200 Hong Kong Scholarship, which aims to give students from Hong Kong the opportunity to experience a global education at a time when overseas study is becoming less accessible for many.  

Tahani has been active in encouraging postgraduate students to apply to Durham, many of whom are now studying at the University. 

To nominate someone, please fill out this online form by Monday 12 October.