Areas of greatest need
The Areas of greatest need are supported by donors who allow the University to determine the most appropriate use for their gift. This flexibility enables St Andrews to allocate resources where they are most needed and strike a delicate balance between short-term solutions to the unexpected and long-term strategic priorities.
In 2022-2023, these funds benefitted from gifts totalling more than £500,000. We are incredibly grateful to all those who have enabled us to work towards our strategic aims of being diverse, sustainable, and socially responsible, while also responding to the cost-of-living crisis.
Projects supported in 2022-2023 included:
Cost of Living Taskforce
The Taskforce is a collaboration between the University and Students’ Association. It identifies need and provides practical support, targeted financial help and information to students and staff feeling the impact of the cost-of-living crisis.
Free food has been distributed via a voucher scheme for hot drinks and snacks for students and through the Campus Larder, which provides essentials such as pasta, cereal and basic household items.
Subsidised travel has been facilitated through a partnership with bus company Stagecoach, which offers a 75% discount on fares. In its first year, the scheme has saved staff and students almost £700,000 and reduced the carbon footprint of those travelling to St Andrews by 614 tonnes. The model has been so successful that it will now include a second transport operator – Moffat and Williamson.
Scholarships
Scholarships have been at the heart of the University since the 15th century, when the first four bursaries were created. Today, St Andrews awards over 350 philanthropically-funded scholarships each year to undergraduate and postgraduate students.
These awards enable the University to attract and admit students with outstanding academic potential – regardless of their race, religion, or financial means.
In 2022-2023, the University increased the value of many of its scholarship awards in response to the increased financial pressure faced by students.
St Andrews Prize for the Environment
Now in its 25th year, the Prize has awarded over $2.5 million in prize money to individuals and organisations who are protecting the environment and encouraging a more sustainable society.
In November 2023, the Prize was awarded to Alianza Ceibo. The non-profit alliance received $100,000 to scale their Indigenous-led model for the protection of the Upper Amazon Rainforest.
University Community Fund
This initiative supports grassroots projects in Fife to make a difference within their communities by providing grants of up to £3,000. The Fund enables the University to play an active role in supporting the local area and to engage with potential partners to work together for the benefit of those living across Fife.
In 2023, over £75,000 was disbursed between 45 projects. Successful organisations included Dairsie Repair Café, which aims to help individuals and families save money and prevent landfill.
Links
Cost of living - University of St Andrews (st-andrews.ac.uk)
2023 Winner - St Andrews Prize for the Environment - University of St Andrews (st-andrews.ac.uk)
