Hopwood Hall principal crowned top 10 Northern Gamechanger at awards

Julia Heap, Principal and CEO of Hopwood Hall College and University College, Rochdale

The principal and CEO of Hopwood Hall College and University College has been crowned a top 10 Northern Gamechangers at an awards ceremony.

Julia Heap was one of 50 people shortlisted for the top 10 at this year’s Northern Gamechangers Awards on 21 September.

Julia was shortlisted for her dedication to improving social mobility and widening opportunities for students and has led numerous initiatives at the college to improve the life chances of students from under-represented backgrounds.

She has also led on initiatives such as the development of a £12m Advanced Technology Centre at the college and providing more than 1,000 free laptops and dongles to students who need them.

Julia said: “The Northern Gamechangers Awards is such a fabulous event and a fantastic example of the talent across the region.

“It was an honour to be included amongst such incredible nominees who really are changing the game in the North.

“I’d like to say a massive congratulations to Steven Thompson – [who was named] the ultimate gamechanger on the evening.”

The Northern Gamechangers awards, which are run by north-west based business consultancy Elevate, celebrate those making a real difference across the North.

Whether it’s businesses pioneering innovation in sustainability or individuals making positive change in their local communities, successful ‘Gamechangers’ use their influence as a force for good.

The winners were judged by regional business leaders, including last year’s winner Lauren Rosegreen, alongside independent PR agency The PHA Group, Manchester Central and Capital & Centric.

Speaking on this year’s awards, Katie Robson, Co-Founder and Director of Elevate, said: “We are thrilled to have hosted the second Northern Gamechangers Awards, and to be able to acknowledge just some of the fantastic work taking place every single day in the North.”

“Last night was all about celebrating these amazing people and the positive impact they’re having, no matter how big or small. Every single winner should be extremely proud of what they have achieved.”