The annual 'Reimagine Education' Awards aim to acknowledge those around the world who are most successful in creating transformational educational initiatives and enhancing student learning outcomes. 

Each year, over 1000 educational innovators submit their projects to 16 Award Categories.  This prestigious competition culminates in a global conference for those seeking to shape the future of education. 

Dr Jon Howden-Evans, Head of the Swansea University Employability Academy (SEA) will travel to Philadelphia in the US in early December to showcase the work that has earned the University a place in the UK Top 15 for Graduate Employability.  

Dr Howden-Evans’ presentation will focus on SEA’s 'My Career Journey Map', which supports students to develop through experience and awards as they progress.  Through this model, Swansea has been able to deliver positive outcomes for all graduates and ensure employability is at the heart of the Swansea University learning experience. 

Dr Howden Evans said: “The success we are seeing has been achieved through partnership working with the University’s professional staff, academic colleagues and our students.  Our model, whilst based on established theory, treats each student as an individual, ensuring that adaptability to the changing world of work is part of all our students’ DNA.”

Chisomo Phiri, President of Swansea University Students' Union said: “Employability of our students is a key commitment of the Students’ Union.  Life as a student is action packed - not just with teaching, assessment and extracurricular activities, but we recognise that many of our students join us with a range of other commitments - from working part time to having caring responsibilities.  Finding a way to 'slot in' the support we offer, has removed so many barriers to gaining student participation.”

Swansea University Physics student, Adam Powell said: “My journey has been transformational.  I joined Swansea in 2013 not really sure of what I wanted to do with my degree.  Thanks to the My Career Journey Map model, I was able to make the most of the opportunities that university offers and this culminated in me securing a three-month internship with L'Oreal in London last summer.  Having reflected on my experiences I will be travelling to the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) next year to complete my master’s research.  To have been able to map out a route to take me places has been invaluable - and I'm already planning for life after CERN.”

Professor Hilary Lappin-Scott, Senior Pro-Vice-Chancellor at Swansea University, said: “We are absolutely delighted with this recognition. To be one of the three UK universities, and the only one from Wales, recognised on the global stage, is yet another example of how Swansea University is really delivering for all who study here.  The company we keep is truly international and sector leading and this is testament to the talent and commitment of Dr Howden-Evans and his team.”