The Association of University Chief Security Officers (AUCSO) has announced the recipients of its Annual Awards 2026, highlighting exceptional achievements within the global university security sector.
The awards ceremony took place on Wednesday, 15 April 2026, during the AUCSO Gala Dinner and Awards Evening, hosted at the University of Exeter's Great Hall as a part of the AUCSO Annual Conference and AGM 2026.
Modern campus security
The conference united security sector leaders from various regions, including the UK, Ireland, Europe, Australia, the USA, and the Middle East.
This year's theme, 'Excellence Shared - Value Realised,' underscored the innovations and professionalism that are shaping the landscape of modern campus security. The awards are a tribute to individuals and teams who exceeded expectations in 2025, showcasing leadership, operational excellence, and a steadfast commitment to campus safety.
AUCSO security officer of the year
Laskey's contribution includes spearheading student engagement initiatives and safety campaigns
Vicky Laskey from the University of Exeter was awarded AUCSO Security Officer of the Year, honouring her commitment to excellence and professionalism.
Laskey's contribution includes spearheading student engagement initiatives and safety campaigns, making her a trustworthy presence on campus. Her calm demeanour under pressure and dedication to continuous development has established a new standard for frontline campus security.
AUCSO security team of the year
The Security Team at the University of Plymouth was recognised for its exceptional courage and resilience, especially during a life-threatening incident where a critically injured individual was given life-saving first aid. Their consistent display of compassion and operational excellence in supporting vulnerable students and responding to incidents exemplifies their dedication to the campus community.
AUCSO security manager of the year
Ahmed Mohamed of Oxford Brookes University earned the title of AUCSO Security Manager of the Year for his innovative contributions that have measurably benefitted his institution and the broader security community.
His implementation of digital reporting systems and data-driven operations, as well as fostering external partnerships, have enhanced student safety and cultivated a high-performing team environment.
AUCSO initiative of the year
Their approach has resulted in a 40% rise in SafeZone registrations and a 90% increase in alerts
The Coventry University Protection Service was acknowledged for their innovative student-focused safety programme. This initiative prioritises wellbeing and crime prevention on campus through roadshows and collaborations with local police, significantly increasing student engagement and safety awareness. Their approach has resulted in a 40% rise in SafeZone registrations and a 90% increase in alerts.
Julie Barker, AUCSO's Chief Operating Officer, commented, “These awards recognise 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 emphasise the significant role security professionals play in Higher Education, illustrating best practices, and establishing excellence benchmarks for the international community.
The Association of University Chief Security Officers (AUCSO), the organisation for security professionals working in Higher and Further Education worldwide, announces the winners of its Annual Awards 2026, recognising 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 honour 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 recognised 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 recognised 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 recognised 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 recognised for a high-impact, student-focused safety programme 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 recognise 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.
