The University’s strategy ‘Creating Better Futures. Together’ is outward and forward-looking, recognising the importance of our external influence and the impact of our actions on the world around us, and reflecting the challenges that face us as a society.

One of our strategic aims is to be more equitable, diverse and inclusive – and so, students who entered the competition were asked to consider the following statements, and develop designs that reflect a sense of kindness, community and connections beyond the campus:

• We will create a culturally vibrant student community that benefits from the inclusion of students from across the globe and who are taught by diverse staff
• We will be accountable for our actions, we will care for ourselves, others and our environment
• We will foster team spirit and create a strong sense of community; we will work together with colleagues, students, alumni and partners

Each competition winner will receive £200. This year’s winners are as follows:

Blanche Lordereau, Graphic Design BA

This design was inspired by a theme surrounding the University. “I wanted to do something original involving the daily environment of the students with the holiday spirit. I am a great fan of origami. Much of my seasonal decorations are origami. I thought it would be an unblemished entity to add as it is both satisfying to create and see. The rest of the effects were fun to improvise as I was using Photoshop. Of course, what is winter without snow?”

Cristina Harrison-Pena, Psychology BSc

Christina said her design was inspired by the University’s strategic aims, promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion. “Using lino printing, I wanted to create a depiction of Loughborough, surrounded by festive Christmas symbols and imagery that reflect the University’s unique qualities and values. The design aims to visually reflect how Loughborough University is at the heart of a community that embraces and includes individuals from all backgrounds, races, abilities, and minority groups. During the festive season, it is important to celebrate the diverse and inclusive nature of the community, and remind ourselves that everyone is responsible for creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all.”

Selin Akas, Design Innovation Management MSc

Selin commented: “This card design celebrates the essence of kindness, connection, and community by blending universal holiday symbols with Loughborough’s global vision. The ornament, shaped as a world, symbolizes unity and the diverse, culturally vibrant community at the University. The ribbon, in Loughborough’s colours, wraps around the globe, representing the University’s embrace of its global community and the ties that bind us – students, staff, and alumni – across cultures and geographies. Gold accents embody optimism and a shared commitment to care for one another and our environment. This artwork invites all to cherish team spirit and create better futures together, embracing equity, diversity, and inclusivity.”

Peter Harrison Centre for Disability Sport

This Christmas Card was designed collectively by PhD students at the Peter Harrison Centre for Disability Sport. Adam, a member of the group, said: “Our Peter Harrison Centre for Disability Sport (PHC) research is guided by the voice of the athlete and thrives under the positive leadership of our Director (Vicky Tolfrey), who supports us all. This card was collaboratively designed by our team in the PHC, with contributions from former PhD student Lesley Sharpe. Inspired by the vibrant inclusivity of the Paris Paralympics, which we enjoyed watching and/or attending this year, the design reflects our commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion. It captures the energy and inclusiveness of our research environment while celebrating the EDI values central to the PHC’s mission and identity.” 

The winning designs are available to order on the University’s online shop.