Academic Lead for Student Support (Inclusion and Racial Equality)

The University of Exeter is committed to supporting students from all backgrounds to thrive and be successful in their chosen programmes. To do this we’re working hard to create a supportive and safe environment for students to raise concerns about any discriminatory experiences they may face during their time with us.

We have a number of colleagues who are Academic Leads for Student Support (Inclusion and Racial Equality). This role has been created to foster a safe and supportive environment for all students in their Departments.

Students should get in touch with their ALSS (IRE) if they have any concerns or need support regarding experiences of racism, racial discrimination, or discrimination against any of the protected characteristics under the Equality Act:

  • Age
  • Disability
  • Gender reassignment
  • Marriage and Civil relationship
  • Pregnancy and maternity
  • Race
  • Religion or belief
  • Sex
  • Sexual orientation

Each ALSS (IRE) has received training and can offer a safe, confidential, and non-judgemental place to discuss issues, problems, and anxieties. They can signpost students to further support and information and share the options available to them, including how to report an incident formally to the University, should they wish to. The ALSS (IRE) can also act as a liaison with students and other colleagues to help seek appropriate information and support.

Got a question? Take a look at our Frequently Asked Questions.

Do get in touch with your Academic Lead for Student Support (Inclusion and Racial Equality) if you need to: 

Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy | Faculty of Health and Life Sciences | Faculty of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences

<strong>Dr John T Bruun</strong>

Dr John T Bruun

Department of Mathematics and Statistics

j.bruun@exeter.ac.uk

I’m a Lecturer in Mathematics and specialise in Climate Dynamics and Data Analytics. Our University is a place where we welcome everyone’s voice and ideas. I’m also the departmental Academic Lead for Student Support (Inclusion and Racial Equality): ALSS (IRE). In society at large we are confronting the issues around racial equality and how to empower even more inclusion.

My ALSS role is part of a University initiative to further support transforming the IRE space for students. On this topic and if you personally encounter any issues you are welcome to contact me at any time and we can discuss 1-1. I’ll also generally be available in termly student-staff meetings

<strong>Dr Arpita Ghosh</strong>

Dr Arpita Ghosh

Department of Economics

A.Ghosh2@exeter.ac.uk

I am a Lecturer in Economics and specialise in Economics of Crime, Housing and Energy, and Economics Education. Some of my work also explores the extent of and solutions to discrimination in the society. In my role as an ALSS (IRE) I am committed to provide a safe space for students to voice their concern and help promote a sense of belonging. I also champion students from all culture and communities by helping organise various events. In addition to ALSS (IRE), I hold the role of Academic Lead for Faith and Worldview in the Business School Inclusivity group. Additionally, I lead the departmental academic advisors as the Senior Tutor of Economics department and provide support to all students and staff in these matters. Please feel free to write to me if you experience any incidents and you would like to talk to me. I am happy to provide information on my termly office hours or additional time where we can discuss any issues.

<strong>Dr Andrew Pye</strong>

Dr Andrew Pye

Department of Ecology and Conservation

a.j.pye@exeter.ac.uk

Office hours: Monday to Friday 10:00 - 15:30

I am the Co-Director Equality, Diversity and Inclusivity for the Centre for Ecology and Conservation in Penryn. I am passionate about creating an inclusive environment where people can feel comfortable and valued being themselves.

I also lead pastural support for undergraduate students in my role as Undergraduate Senior Academic Tutor. As Lead Academic Tutor I have a strong focus on staff tutoring, peer tutoring and the undergraduate experience as a whole. I teach first and second year undergraduate modules and run research projects on microbiology and disease.

<strong>Mohamad Abdel-Aal</strong>

Mohamad Abdel-Aal

Department of Engineering (including Renewable Energy Engineering at Penryn)

M.Abdel-Aal@exeter.ac.uk

I’m Mohamad, the Engineering Academic Lead for Student Support (Inclusion and Racial Equality). I provide students with a safe, confidential, and non-judgemental place to raise any issues related to their sense of belonging, or concerns about discrimination and harassment. I can also signpost you to further support and information in the University. If you’d like to talk, just email me and we can arrange a time to meet.

<strong>Becca Middleton</strong>

Becca Middleton

Department of Physics and Astronomy, and Natural Sciences

R.Barnard@exeter.ac.uk

I am the Pastoral Mentor for Physics and Astronomy, and Natural Sciences. 

I work in the Physics department and liaise directly between academic and wellbeing support, proactively monitoring engagement and attendance and offering 1:1 student support. I sit on the inclusion group, wellbeing groups and lead the Physics accessibility officer role. I work directly with the academics to proactively help with student support, whether that be through wellbeing support, ILPs or academic progression. 

<strong>Dr Susan Reh</strong>

Dr Susan Reh

University of Exeter Business School

s.g.reh@exeter.ac.uk

I am a senior lecturer at the Department of Management (Organisational Behaviour and Human Resource Management group) and the Academic Lead for Student Support (Racial Equality and Inclusion).

Creating an inclusive culture for students that embraces diversity and supports students is something I am truly passionate about. If you encounter any issues around racial (in)equality or inclusion that you would like to discuss in a safe space, please feel free to reach out to me and we can arrange a 1:1 confidential meeting. 

<strong>Dr Lívia Regina Batista-Pritchard</strong>

Dr Lívia Regina Batista-Pritchard

University of Exeter Business School (Sustainable Futures)

L.Batista2@exeter.ac.uk

Office hours: Wednesday 10:00 – 12:00

I’m a Lecturer in Sustainable Management based in the Penryn Campus, and have recently taken on the role of sub-departmental Academic Lead for Student Support (Inclusion and Racial Equality). Aligned with intellectual activism, I firmly believe that education should be a project towards social justice and am committed to fostering an inclusive learning environment.

If you personally encounter any issues related to racial discrimination, any other discrimination based on protected characteristics, or your overall sense of belonging at the University, you are welcome to contact me at any time. We will arrange a 1:1 meeting to discuss this in a safe and non-judgemental space.

<strong>Dr Rebecca Sandover</strong>

Dr Rebecca Sandover

Department of Geography

R.Sandover@exeter.ac.uk

I’m a Human Geography lecturer who specialises in understanding the impacts of sustainable food networks. I believe in creating an inclusive environment at University and for every student to have the right to have their voices heard and experiences understood. I’ve been supporting the Decolonising the Curriculum process both in Geography and in the national Food Geographies Research Group (RGS-IBG). Understanding the world from a wide range of perspectives increases our abilities to address current challenges, such as inequality, climate change, economic crises etc.

I’m pleased to be able to support students in Geography and to increase an openness to exploring issues affecting students with protected characteristics (age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil relationship, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation). If you personally encounter any issues you are welcome to contact me and we can discuss your experiences.

Dr Markus Mueller

Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences

m.mueller@exeter.ac.uk

I am an Associate Professor in Applied Mathematics and member of the Centre of Environmental Mathematics on Penryn Campus. My research interests span from the mathematical theory of dynamical systems, control and data science to applications in health and well-being, housing, environment and renewable energy. I have been lucky to be principal and co-investigator on several research and impact projects and collaborations with regional health and care providers and social housing organisations which allowed us to better understand environmental factors within homes and their impact on health and well-being, and to support care organisations and study participants in low-income household to utilise smart technologies to improve indoor environmental conditions and respectively create healthier homes.

As Equality, Diversity and Inclusion lead for the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, I am supporting a diverse mix of students and staff in Geology, Geography, Environmental and Marine Sciences, Mining Engineering, and Applied Mathematics and Data Science.

Dr Martha Omolo

University of Exeter Business School

m.omolo@exeter.ac.uk

I’m passionate about contributing to the creation of an inclusive community where everyone feels they belong irrespective of our differences. In my role, I support students who have experienced incidences or any form of discrimination be it in or outside the classroom by providing a safe and confidential environment where students can talk privately about their concerns. I also liaise with other support teams in the University to do our best to create an inclusive learning environment where students from all backgrounds can achieve their full potential.

Department of Computer Science

If you would like to raise any concerns related to any discriminatory experiences, please contact the EDI team (edi@exeter.ac.uk) or Dr Vrinda Nayak (V.Nayak@exeter.ac.uk)

Faculty of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences

<strong>Ruth Flanagan</strong>

Ruth Flanagan

School of Education

r.flanagan@exeter.ac.uk

Every year I support students with a range of concerns such as workload, placement challenges, accommodation, adapting to life in a new city, and occasionally unfortunately issues of racism.

It is an honour to work with students in this way: to listen, to provide support and to signpost to the range of support that is available. Please do not suffer in silence. If you have any concerns, contact me for support.

<strong>Dr Ryan Hanley</strong>

Dr Ryan Hanley

Department of Archaology and History

r.j.hanley@exeter.ac.uk

Office hours: Amory 233b, Mondays, 15.00 - 16.00, Thursdays, 11.30 - 12.30

Book an appointment.

I'm the ALSS (IRE) for Archaeology and History. Alongside my academic work on Black British History, I have been working in the fields of student welfare, decolonising, and equalities activism for just over ten years now. I passionately believe that every student should be able to thrive and enjoy their time at Exeter, regardless of background.

I'm very happy to meet with any Archaeology or History students who are experiencing any issues related to diversity, equity, and social justice, whether that is just to have a supportive discussion or to think about next steps together. I'm here as an academic advocate to support you.

<strong>Dr Rama Sahtout</strong>

Dr Rama Sahtout

Law School

R.Sahtout2@exeter.ac.uk

I am here to support you and help foster a more inclusive environment for everyone. I collaborate with students from diverse backgrounds to recognize their achievements and identify any challenges. If you would like to share your experiences or thoughts on inclusion and racial equality, please reach out. I offer a safe, confidential space where you can speak openly, knowing that I will listen, support you, and guide toward available resources when needed. Please feel free to email me to arrange a time to talk.

Dr Nadeen Dakkak

Department of English and Creative Writing

I am Lecturer in World and Postcolonial Literatures and I am the Academic Lead for Student Support, Racial Equality and Inclusion in English and Creative Writing. I’m here to act as a point of contact for any issues you might have in relation to your sense of belonging in the department and/or at the University of Exeter, or if you want to share concerns related to racism, racial discrimination and any other discrimination based on protected characteristics you might experience.

Click here to book a slot in my Office Hours.

<strong>Prof. Leif Isaksen</strong>

Prof. Leif Isaksen

Department of Classics, Ancient History, Religion and Theology

L.Isaksen@exeter.ac.uk

Office hours: Tuesdays (online), Thursdays & Fridays 3:00-4:00pm

I’m Professor of Ancient History and Digital Humanities, and believe passionately that Higher Education must be accessible, welcoming and inclusive to everyone. As the CAHRT Academic Lead for Student Support (Inclusion and Racial Equality) I am committed to providing a supportive and confidential space to discuss any form of discrimination, including racial discrimination, or your overall sense of belonging and inclusion at the University.

Should you encounter any issues of this nature during your time at Exeter, please don’t hesitate to get in touch and we will arrange a 1:1 to meeting.

<strong>Dr Sabiha Allouche</strong>

Dr Sabiha Allouche

Department of Arab and Islamic Studies

s.allouche@exeter.ac.uk

I am a Senior Lecturer in Middle East Politics who specializes in gender and sexuality in relation to the Middle East. Both my research and teaching are driven by intersectional feminist ethos and praxis of care. I implement both in my EDI work, including my role as ALSS (IRE) for IAIS, in the hope of normalising care work in everyday institutional work.

See Sabiha's staff profile

<strong>Dr Caleb Lee</strong>

Dr Caleb Lee

Department of Communication, Drama and Film

C.Lee4@exeter.ac.uk

I am a Lecturer in Drama, where my teaching, practice, and research explore how performance and the creative industries shape the way we think, collaborate, and connect across cultures. In my classes, I encourage students to see creativity not only as something that happens on stage, but as a way of expressing ideas, building communities, and making positive change in the world we live in.

I am also the department’s Academic Lead for Student Support (Inclusion and Racial Equality), as well as a trained Mental Health First Aider. In these roles, I work with students and colleagues to ensure our learning environment is inclusive, supportive, and fair. This means listening carefully, championing representation, and finding practical ways to create a genuine sense of belonging in the department. You’re always welcome to get in touch about any concerns or support you might need, no matter how small they feel. All conversations will be kept safe, confidential, and judgement-free, giving you space to talk openly about any worries or challenges.

My ethos is simple: everyone should feel seen, heard, and valued. Creativity and inclusion go hand in hand, and I believe both are vital for students to thrive,  in their studies and beyond.

See Caleb's staff profile

Dr Chitzi Ogbumgbada

Humanities and Social Sciences, Penryn (Cornwall)

C.Ogbumgbada@exeter.ac.uk

Faculty of Health and Life Sciences

<strong>OreOluwa (Debs) Onifade</strong>

OreOluwa (Debs) Onifade

Department of Health and Care Professions

d.o.onifade@exeter.ac.uk

hcp-studentsupportrei@exeter.ac.uk

Students are free to send email at any time and will be responded to as soon as possible.

I am a lecturer at the Academy of Nursing, University of Exeter, a mental health nurse among many other things. I transitioned into the United Kingdom in the year 2021. Currently, the Academic Lead for Student Support for Inclusion and Racial Equality for the Faculty of HC&P. I work with any student who is experiencing marginalization to provide a safe, confidential, and non-judgemental place to discuss and address issues, problems, and anxieties.

I am passionate about mentoring and helping individuals to settle and feel comfortable in their skin.

 

<strong>Dr Safi Darden</strong>

Dr Safi Darden

Department of Psychology

S.Darden@exeter.ac.uk

I can be reached via e-mail, via direct message on Teams, during my office hours (book here), and any time my office door is open (WSL 124b) or you see me around campus.

I am a Senior Lecturer (E&R) in the Psychology Department and have been involved in EDI networks and committees in the department and across the University since joining UoE in 2009 as a postdoctoral researcher.

In my role as Academic Lead for Student Support (Inclusion and Racial Equality), I am committed to supporting students within the Psychology Department, and to particularly focus my wider activities on addressing challenges and barriers faced by those who are among the people who experience racism in our society. To me, this means working alongside students to celebrate student achievements, facilitate opportunities for networking and professional development, and tackle everyday and systemic barriers within and outside the department.

<strong>Dr Shalinee Dhayal</strong>

Dr Shalinee Dhayal

Department of Clinical Biomedical Sciences

s.dhayal2@exeter.ac.uk

<strong>Dr Eleanor Townsend</strong>

Dr Eleanor Townsend

Department of Clinical Biomedical Sciences

e.m.t.townsend@exeter.ac.uk

There are many challenges at university, none of these should be related to discrimination. I am here to support you and listen to any issues you may face during your studies.

I am a lecturer in Biomedical Sciences (Microbiology) and I teach on many undergraduate and postgraduate courses in the department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences.

If you would ever like to talk, you can email me (e.m.t.townsend@exeter.ac.uk) or book into my office hours (Thursday 11:30 - 13:30, book here)

<strong>Dr Iveren Winifred (Winnie) Nyinoh</strong>

Dr Iveren Winifred (Winnie) Nyinoh

Department of Biosciences

W.I.Nyinoh@exeter.ac.uk

<strong>Dr Amad Al-Azzawi</strong>

Dr Amad Al-Azzawi

Department of Health and Community Sciences

A.Al-Azzawi@exeter.ac.uk

I am excited about my role and how I can help you succeed and flourish. My role is providing you with a safe and accessible space to speak, discuss, and share your lived experiences related to equity and diversity during your learning journey with us. In the safe space I will listen to what you say, and respect your opinion, then I will do my best to be your voice. I believe working together will provide the platform to set up procedures and standards that help build an inclusive learning environment.

You can contact me through email and if you need, you can schedule a catch-up meeting with me through Academic mentor: Book a 1:1.

Dr Lisa Price

Department of Public Health and Sports Science

L.R.S.Price@exeter.ac.uk

Shama Goyal

Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences (BMBS Programme, Cornwall Campuses)

s.goyal2@exeter.ac.uk

Office hours: Monday to Thursday, 09:00 - 17:00

I have been working as a Consultant Paediatrician at the Royal Cornwall Hospital for the last 10 years. I am the senior academic tutor for student support for ethnic minority students in Cornwall. I provide a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space to discuss any issues you have experienced not just on placements but also outside if they are having an impact on you. I would support you in raising concerns through the appropriate channels.

Even if you are not sure and just want to talk it through, please feel free to approach me on email.

Frequently asked questions

Their role is to create a supporting, safe environment for students in their Departments to raise any issues related to their sense of belonging, concerns related to racism, racial discrimination or any other discrimination and to seek support promptly. Discrimination may include microaggression, harassment and bullying experienced on campus, outside campus, at placement sites or in accommodation.  

  • Students who experienced racism, racial discrimination or any other discriminatory behaviour or language from others affecting their well-being, sense of belonging or ability to study and would like to raise concern about such incidents and to seek support enabling them to take any appropriate action.
  • Students who witnessed others facing racism, racial discrimination or any other discriminatory behaviour or language from any staff, students or members of the public and would like to raise concerns about such incidents.
  • Academic/personal tutors/any staff who would like to raise concerns about their tutees/students who have experienced racism, racial discrimination or any other discriminatory behaviour or language from any staff, students or members of the public.

In the first instance please contact the ALSS (IRE) by email. You may want to provide a brief overview of your experience in your email or just request a meeting to talk through their experience. The email address and other details for all Department ALSS (IRE) are found in the profiles provided on this page. If there is no ALSS (IRE) listed for your Department, please contact the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) team (edi@exeter.ac.uk) or Dr Vrinda Nayak (V.Nayak@exeter.ac.uk).

The Department ALSS (IRE) will provide a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space for you to raise any concerns about your experiences. The ALSS (IRE) will listen to you and explain the options available to you in terms of support (e.g. counselling, wellbeing/welfare support) and/or reporting options (e.g. liaising with module leads or programme leads, or reporting through Support and Report).

The ALSS (IRE) will listen to you and explain the options available to you in terms of support (e.g. counselling, wellbeing/welfare support) and/or reporting options (e.g. liaising with module leads or programme leads, or reporting through Support and Report).

Once the different options have been explained to you, the ALSS (IRE) can talk through these with you to help you reach a decision about the next steps and provide information that you need. However, that decision is yours and any decision you make will be respected - including if you decide not to report or seek further support.

Yes, the ALSS (IRE) in your department will support you in taking formal action by explaining the reporting options available to you and the process involved.

We appreciate you may be concerned about coming across as a “troublemaker”. We assure you that the main purpose of the Department ALSS (IRE) is to create a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space to raise your concerns. They will listen to you attentively, support you to access further support and explain the different reporting options available to you if you wish.

Any specific information you provide will remain confidential, and will not be passed on to anyone else without your explicit permission.
In exceptional circumstances, if the ALSS (IRE) considers there is an unacceptable risk to you, someone else or the University, they will let you know if they need to involve other colleagues. Should this happen, it will be done on a need-to-know basis.

We will use anonymised data to help us understand what kind of incidents are taking place in our community.