We are incredibly grateful for what our donor community has helped us achieve. Together, our supporters are making a remarkable difference to the lives of our students.

Rhonda Allen is one of our generous regular donors to the Hallam Fund that’s helping us shape a future where every student who has the talent, can gain the knowledge they need to make their aspirations come alive.

Rhonda graduated from Sheffield Hallam University with a BSc in Planning Studies in 2010 and MSc in Urban Regeneration in 2012.

She decided to study at the University ever since her visit to the city. Rhonda has fond memories of Sheffield Hallam as she had a fantastic time here. She joined the university as a mature student, but never felt any different to anyone else. She was also a student representative and had a really good relationship with her fellow students.

‘I think my time at Hallam taught me a lot of things. The career I am in now in urban regeneration is directly linked to my degrees at Hallam. I work for Sheffield city council and specifically work with young people in the community, keeping them out of the criminal justice system. I am also a race equality commissioner for Sheffield. I say to the kids I work with now, go to Sheffield Hallam.’

Rhonda began giving to the Hallam Fund after speaking with one of our student ambassadors during the 2018 telethon. Ever since then, every year Rhonda reviews her finances and donations, and then usually puts in a little more each time. She gives because she wants to ensure everyone can have the opportunity to go to university regardless of where they come from, their upbringing, the colour of their skin or their culture. She understands that not everyone starts university from the same point in life and she believes that this shouldn’t act as a barrier for them to study or succeed.

‘I think for me, when I was in university I worked nights, long hours and then I had to study during the days, so I know the financial discipline you need to have. I remember it was always in the back of your mind, how am I going to get through this month? As a mature student, I also didn’t have a parent to rely on.

I also work with a lot of young people and they say to me ‘I’d love to go to university, but I can’t afford it’. That should never be a barrier for a young person who wants to study at university.’ 

Rhonda is an engaged member of our donor community. She enjoyed attending the donor event last December and hearing from some students first-hand who benefit from the Hallam Fund. She could see her donations have had a transforming impact on the lives of a variety of different students. Rhonda is not just a donor but is also an advocate of the Hallam Fund.

‘I would say to them, reciprocity is really important and giving back is key. The best way to encourage young people to do anything positive is for them to see that you have been through the process. Helping students who need it the most, will only encourage them. It’s really good to give back. It will make you feel good.’

We are truly thankful to our supporters and advocates like Rhonda who support us in making our vision to widen access to higher education for all, irrespective of personal or financial circumstances, a reality.