Chaplaincy initiatives receive three global nominations at 2026 Keystone Awards

The Keystone Awards celebrate global excellence in higher education and professional training, highlighting institutions, educators and students who demonstrate outstanding innovation, inclusion, academic impact and student experience. This year’s awards continue to showcase initiatives driving meaningful change across international education. 

The University’s triple shortlist reflects the growing influence of its Chaplaincy team and student leaders in enhancing campus life through values-led, inclusive support. 

The University of Chester’s Chaplaincy team plays a key role in fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for students and staff of all faiths and beliefs. Operating within a multi-faith framework, Chaplaincy provides pastoral care, community spaces and wellbeing initiatives designed to promote connection, resilience and belonging across the University. 

• Outstanding Student Experience Initiative - Community Hub – Preventative Health Initiative 

The Community Hub has been shortlisted for its innovative approach to preventative student wellbeing. Designed as a student-centred space, the Hub brings together wellbeing support, creativity and community in a single environment. 

Facilities include quiet reflection areas, creative spaces, a games room, shared kitchen facilities and an award-winning wellbeing garden. Developed in collaboration with students and partners, the Hub offers an accessible space for relaxation, connection and informal support, embedding wellbeing into everyday student life. 

• Outstanding Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Initiative - Themed Tea Parties – Building belonging through dialogue 

The Chaplaincy’s Themed Tea Parties have been recognised for their contribution to equality, diversity and inclusion. Since October 2024, more than 15 sessions have created safe, informal spaces where students can connect and share experiences. 

Themes have included LGBTQ+ inclusion, homesickness, sustainability, women’s empowerment, academic skills, cultural adjustment, anti-bullying and belonging. By creating conversational environments outside formal settings, the initiative has encouraged honest dialogue, peer support and stronger community connections. 

• International Student of the Year - Ramitha Nittore Ramnath 

Undergraduate Psychology student and Assistant Hindu Chaplain, Ramitha Nittore Ramnath, has been nominated for International Student of the Year. 

Ramitha has demonstrated exceptional leadership within Chaplaincy, supporting wellbeing, intercultural understanding and inclusive community engagement. Her contributions to student-led initiatives, including themed tea parties and cultural events, have helped build welcoming spaces for dialogue and connection across diverse student groups. 

Her work has also been recognised for enhancing the international student experience and promoting inclusive leadership across the University. 

From preventative health initiatives and inclusive spaces to student leadership, the Chaplaincy team continues to demonstrate how values-led support can enhance student experience on a global stage. 

Ramitha recently received a Highly Commended certificate for University Student Achievement of the Year in the Educate North Awards. 

Winners of the 2026 Keystone Awards will be announced later this year at an international ceremony celebrating innovation and excellence in education. 

Revd Dr Gill Reeve, Senior Chaplain at the University of Chester, said: “We are delighted to see the work of our Chaplaincy team and students recognised on a global stage. These nominations reflect a shared commitment to creating spaces where every student feels welcomed, supported and valued. Our work is rooted in care, connection and community, and it is incredibly rewarding to see the impact this has on student experience.” 

Ramitha said: “I feel honoured to be nominated for this award. My experience at Chester has shown me how powerful it is when students feel they belong and can bring their whole selves to university life. Through Chaplaincy, I’ve had the opportunity to help create inclusive spaces where people can connect, share their stories and support one another.” 

For more information about the Keystone Awards, visit: https://www.keg.com/keystone-awards