University of Bristol, UK. Claire Ireland has been appointed deputy head of international partnerships and relations at the University of Bristol, where she leads the International Scholarships and Sponsors team. In this role, Claire will expand the University’s global scholarship programs including the flagship Think Big Scholarship Scheme and strengthen partnerships with overseas sponsors and funders. Claire brings over 30 years of experience in international diplomacy, development and advocacy. A former Australian diplomat, she served as high commissioner to Nigeria and held postings in Vietnam, UAE, Uganda, and Kenya. Most recently, she was at The Elders, working with global leaders to help advocate for peace, justice, human rights and a sustainable planet. A former scholarship beneficiary, Claire credits her Master’s at Imperial College London as transformational. She said: “Supporting talented students from around the world is one of the most meaningful and motivating parts of my work. I’m proud to help expand access to life-changing education that equips future leaders to connect across borders, tackle shared challenges, and shape a more just, sustainable, and inclusive world for everyone.”