The Hive awarded Annual Fund - Nov 2010 : Nov 12, 2010

We've just heard that The Hive bid for the annual fund at the University of Salford has been successful. This is great news for the Hive and everyone that uses it, because it now means we have backing from the University. This means that the Hive can be further developed, supported and promoted, keeping it as the free to use and advert free service for students, alumni and others. The successful bid was thanks to the amazing help, support and advice from staff and students of the University of Salford - with particular thanks to the University of Salford's funding team for their advice and the following people who lent their supporting statements to the bid:

Liz Bromley (Director of Student Life) "The Hive project has established a Salford-based community of knowledge using latest technologies and social media to enable rich dialogue, critical reflection and most of all a means of interactive communication across the student and staff communities. It's really important that this enabling project is sustained beyond its current limits to ensure that students continue to have access to, and use of, the resource. The enthusiasm that was generated by the Hive during the Induction programme this year demonstrates its value and impact on both and returning new students. Student Life was delighted to be able to support and promote the project for the Welcome programme."

Ricky Chotai (President, University of Salford Students' Union) “As student president, I believe The Hive will be of great value to our students both past and present. It’s crucial for us as a University to provide this type of service, and the Hive will help us to improve the student experience. ”

Keith Lawrence (Associate Director – Enterprise) "The Hive project has already proved to be a popular and useful idea for staff and students throughout the University. I whole heartedly support this application bid as I believe it is vital to invest in the Hive to enable it to grow next year."

Professor Paul Haywood: “This initiative is imperative to the future success of our engagement profile at the Quays and in the wider emerging creative community of the City region. The HIVE represents an opportunity for us to embrace diversity in the pool of new talent that is establishing a reputation; enhancing a relevant professional environment for our graduates and for their developing networks and addressing the opportunities that Social Media can bring to independents in the sector. The HIVE keeps us in touch and allows the University to share the successes of its own graduate community and associates. It will link us into the invention and innovation of a new generation of creative’s.”

Lawrie Perrins Manager, Student Communication & Induction
"The Hive fits closely with a number of the University’s strategic goals and themes, in particular, Strategic Goal 3 by enhancing engagement with and between students, and between students and the wider community. It also fits closely with strategic Theme 6 through its application of media and digital technology. This project will enable students to showcase their skills and talents in a way that will be accessible to employers, further enhancing student employability. The Hive project celebrates and promotes Salford student achievement and so would contribute directly and substantially to the aims and objectives of the Student Life Directorate."

As always, we welcome your comments about the Hive and how it can help your studies, working lives or hobbies.