The Association of University Chief Security Officers (AUCSO) has announced the recipients of its 2026 Annual Awards, celebrating exceptional achievements within the global university security sector.
Held at the University of Exeter's Great Hall on April 15, 2026, these awards formed a key part of the AUCSO Annual Conference and AGM, highlighting the innovative and dedicated work shaping modern campus security worldwide.
Modern Campus Security
This year's conference, attended by leaders from the UK, Ireland, Europe, Australia, the USA, and the Middle East, focused on the theme 'Excellence Shared - Value Realised.' It emphasized the innovation, professionalism, and dedication that have been enhancing modern campus security.
The Annual Awards recognized individuals and teams for their exceptional contributions in 2025, demonstrating leadership and operational excellence in maintaining campus safety.
AUCSO Security Officer of the Year
Her calm demeanor and focus on continuous development have set a high standard for campus security
Vicky Laskey from the University of Exeter was awarded 'Security Officer of the Year' for her exceptional professionalism and dedication. Known for her compassion and commitment to student wellbeing, Laskey has been a visible and trusted presence on campus, spearheading student engagement and safety initiatives that have significantly supported students. Her calm demeanor and focus on continuous development have set a high standard for campus security.
AUCSO Security Team of the Year
The University of Plymouth Security Team received recognition as 'Security Team of the Year' for their exceptional teamwork and commitment. The team exhibited extraordinary courage and professionalism during a life-threatening incident, managing to secure the scene and provide critical first aid. Their ongoing community support, including assisting vulnerable students and handling major incidents, exemplifies the highest standards of the profession.
AUCSO Security Manager of the Year
Ahmed Mohamed from Oxford Brookes University was honored as 'Security Manager of the Year' due to his leadership and innovation. Mohamed introduced digital reporting systems and modernized training to enhance his team’s effectiveness and professionalism. His efforts have not only improved student safety but have also strengthened external partnerships, fostering a high-performing team culture.
AUCSO Initiative of the Year
The AUCSO Annual Awards illuminate the crucial role of security professionals in Higher Education
The Coventry University Protection Service received the 'Initiative of the Year' award for a pioneering safety program focused on student wellbeing and engagement. With twice-weekly roadshows that create a platform for student support and collaboration with local authorities, the program has significantly boosted safety awareness and student confidence, as evidenced by increased SafeZone registrations and alerts.
Julie Barker, AUCSO's Chief Operating Officer, remarked, “These awards recognize the very best of our profession - individuals and teams who demonstrate extraordinary commitment, innovation, and leadership in protecting their campus communities. This year’s winners are outstanding examples of the professionalism and dedication that define our sector, and it was a privilege to celebrate their achievements at our 42nd Anniversary Conference.”
The AUCSO Annual Awards illuminate the crucial role of security professionals in Higher Education, setting benchmarks for excellence and showcasing best practices across the global community.
The Association of University Chief Security Officers (AUCSO), the organization for security professionals working in Higher and Further Education worldwide, announces the winners of its Annual Awards 2026, recognizing outstanding achievement across the global university security community.
The awards were presented on Wednesday, 15 April 2026, at the AUCSO Gala Dinner and Awards Evening, held in the Great Hall at the University of Exeter, as part of the AUCSO Annual Conference and AGM 2026.
Modern campus security
Bringing together sector leaders from across the UK, Ireland, Europe, Australia, the USA and the Middle East, this year’s conference, themed ‘Excellence Shared - Value Realised’, celebrated the innovation, professionalism and dedication shaping modern campus security.
The Annual Awards honor individuals and teams who have gone above and beyond in 2025, demonstrating exceptional leadership, operational excellence and a commitment to keeping campus communities safe.
AUCSO security officer of the year
Winner: Vicky Laskey, University of Exeter - Awarded to a Security Officer who has consistently demonstrated excellence and professionalism, going above and beyond the usual expectations of their role.
Vicky Laskey was recognized for her outstanding professionalism, compassion and unwavering commitment to student wellbeing. A trusted and highly visible presence across campus, she has led student engagement initiatives and safety campaigns that help students feel informed, reassured and supported. Calm and empathetic under pressure, and committed to continuous development, she consistently goes above and beyond, setting a benchmark for frontline campus security.
AUCSO security team of the year
Winner: Security Team, University of Plymouth - Awarded to a Security Team whose teamwork or response to an incident has required exceptional commitment beyond normal duties, displaying courage, determination and dedication in supporting their campus community.
The University of Plymouth Security Team was recognized for extraordinary courage, professionalism and resilience in the most challenging circumstances. In a life-threatening incident, a three-officer night shift responded decisively to a critically injured individual, securing the scene and delivering life-saving first aid that helped stabilise the casualty before emergency services arrived. Beyond this, the team has consistently demonstrated compassion, operational excellence and community commitment - supporting vulnerable students, responding to major incidents and embodying the very best of the profession.
AUCSO security manager of the year
Winner: Ahmed Mohamed, Oxford Brookes University - Awarded to a Security Manager who has introduced innovations adding measurable value to their institution, positively contributed to the wider security community, reduced security risks and demonstrated consistent leadership across their team.
Ahmed Mohamed was recognized for exceptional leadership and innovation, delivering transformative impact both within Oxford Brookes University and across the wider security community. Through digital reporting systems, data-led operations and modernised training, he has enhanced the effectiveness and professionalism of his Security Service. His work to improve student safety and strengthen external partnerships has increased confidence and reduced risk, while fostering a high-performing, collaborative team culture.
AUCSO initiative of the year
Winner: Coventry University Protection Service - Awarded to a security team that has implemented a unique and innovative initiative delivering tangible value to both the security operation and the wider institution. Coventry University Protection Service was recognized for a high-impact, student-focused safety program that places wellbeing, engagement and crime prevention at the heart of campus life.
Through twice-weekly roadshows across campus and accommodation, the team has created a visible and accessible platform for student support, working in partnership with local police and PCSOs to deliver practical, real-world safety advice. Interactive demonstrations and hands-on engagement bring key initiatives to life, ensuring messages resonate with students.
The results are compelling: SafeZone registrations have increased by 40%, while alerts have risen by 90% year-on-year, reflecting stronger awareness, trust and student confidence. By combining innovation, partnership working and measurable impact, Coventry University has set a benchmark for excellence in student engagement and campus safety.
Demonstrating extraordinary commitment
Julie Barker, Chief Operating Officer at AUCSO, said: “These awards recognize the very best of our profession - individuals and teams who demonstrate extraordinary commitment, innovation and leadership in protecting their campus communities. This year’s winners are outstanding examples of the professionalism and dedication that define our sector, and it was a privilege to celebrate their achievements at our 42nd Anniversary Conference.”
The AUCSO Annual Awards continue to highlight the critical role of security professionals in Higher Education, showcasing best practice and setting benchmarks for excellence across the international community.
