The University of Sussex Business School is proud to receive the prestigious Athena Swan Bronze Award. This is in recognition of our work in advancing gender equality and our commitment to fostering an inclusive environment for all staff and students.

The Athena Swan Bronze Award is a significant milestone for the Business School. It highlights the School’s dedication to promoting diversity, addressing gender disparities, and implementing effective policies that support women in academia. This achievement not only reflects the hard work and dedication of the entire School community but also sets a strong foundation for future progress in gender equality initiatives.

We have identified priority areas for our five-year action plan, with a particular focus on recruitment and representation, and progression and career development. We are proud of the work that is ongoing in these areas and will continue to refine policies that promote equality and deliver our commitments. We will engage in ongoing self-assessment, learn, and improve our practices with innovative solutions. Our focus remains on fostering an inclusive culture.

Business School Interim Executive Dean, Professor Debbie Isobel Keeling said: “This recognition is a testament to our collective efforts to create a more inclusive and supportive environment. We are committed to continuing our work in promoting gender equality and ensuring that everyone at the University of Sussex Business School can thrive. This award is part of our journey towards greater equity and inclusion.  Many thanks go to our Business School EDI Champion, Hengyi Wang, Athena Swan co-chairs (Frankie Marks-Dennis, Simone Webb, Lilith A. Whiley), and the Athena Swan Self-Assessment Team for their collective efforts in helping us achieve this award.”

The Athena Swan Charter, established in 2005, is an equality charter mark framework and accreditation scheme managed by Advance HE. It recognises and celebrates good practices in higher education and research institutions towards the advancement of gender equality. Initially focused on science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine (STEMM), the charter was expanded in 2015 to include arts, humanities, social sciences, business, and law (AHSSBL), as well as professional and support staff, and transgender staff and students.

The University of Sussex Business School remains dedicated to building on this success and furthering its commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of its work.  

For more information about our equality initiatives or the Athena Swan Charter, please contact Business EDI.