Graduate and former sports scholar Lauren Steadman MBE has received recognition of her incredible achievements and contributions to the sport industry
In 2019, BUCS introduced the Hall of Fame to celebrate the centenary of British university sport. The Hall of Fame acknowledges an individual's dedication and achievements in sport. Those already included in the BUCS Hall of Fame include Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill and Sir Roger Bannister.
Lauren is the most successful female paratriathlete in the world over the past 10 years. She studied at the University of Portsmouth, achieving a first-class honours degree in Psychology at undergraduate level and a distinction in Business and Management at postgraduate level. Lauren was awarded an honorary doctorate by the University in 2021. She went to two Paralympic Games and competed in the BUCS Swimming Championships during her time at the University.
Lauren is a true inspiration who has overcome so many challenges. We pride ourselves on supporting talent and aiming to be the best we can be, which is exactly our long-term goal – to be the top modern university. It’s wonderful to celebrate Lauren’s sporting endeavours, her entrepreneurial success, her humble personality and approachability. She is an inspiration to me, the university community, to women and to those with a disability
Professor Graham Galbraith, University of Portsmouth Vice-Chancellor, said: “Lauren is a true inspiration who has overcome so many challenges. We pride ourselves on supporting talent and aiming to be the best we can be, which is exactly our long-term goal – to be the top modern university. It’s wonderful to celebrate Lauren’s sporting endeavours, her entrepreneurial success, her humble personality and approachability. She is an inspiration to me, the university community, to women and to those with a disability.”
Between 2012 and 2016 Lauren competed in both Europe and across the World in Paratriathlon clocking up an impressive 16 Gold medals and 2 Silver medals. Lauren competed in her third Paralympic Games at Rio de Janeiro in 2016, this time in the first-ever Paratriathlon to be included, and she took home a silver medal.
As well as Lauren’s astounding sporting success, she has been a hugely influential sports personality using her success and disability to engage and inspire others to achieve their best. Lauren supports many charitable causes and spends a lot of time working with schools and children with disabilities. Lauren was awarded an MBE for services to sport in 2022.
Lauren has been a key presence in Portsmouth celebrating and promoting the city, its sporting facilities and raising the profile of the University. Lauren is influential in allowing student-athletes to chase their academic and sporting aspirations, proving that success in both fields is achievable.