Tess Hornsby Smith

Profile

I work with academic colleagues, professional services staff and students across the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Cultures (AHC) to develop projects and initiatives that enhance the student experience and celebrate the achievements of our community.

A key part of my role is creating opportunities for students to showcase their work and learn from one another. I lead the Faculty's annual Undergraduate Research Experience (UGRE), which has been celebrating student research, creativity and innovation since 2011, giving undergraduates a platform to share and discuss their work with peers, staff and the wider University community. In 2026, I also launched the Faculty's first Postgraduate Research Experience (PGRE), an event designed to showcase the outstanding work of our postgraduate taught and research students, which we hope will become a regular fixture in the Faculty calendar.

I manage the Leeds Excellence in the Arts Programme (LEAP), a selective two-year enrichment programme that supports students from a range of backgrounds to achieve their potential through research-led discussions, workshops, skills development opportunities and personalised pathways. LEAP plays an important role in supporting the University's commitment to creating a place where all students feel they belong, can thrive and are valued for their unique contributions.

I am also co-lead of Creative Life Stories, a project that supports students who may face barriers to entering the creative and cultural industries. Through networking events, panel discussions, resources, podcasts, blogs and case studies, we help students build confidence, make connections and gain insights into creative careers.

Alongside this, I oversee a range of initiatives that recognise and celebrate the achievements of our students, staff and alumni. These include the AHC Good Eggs, the AHC Spotlight On series and the AHC Partnership Awards, all of which highlight the positive impact individuals make across our Faculty community.

My favourite part of the role is creating opportunities for students to connect, develop their confidence and realise what they are capable of, both during their time at Leeds and beyond.

Qualifications

• BA (hons.) Modern European History (University of East Anglia)

Professional memberships

• Associate Fellow of the Higher Education Academy
• University of Leeds Student Education Fellow (Full)