Candidate Profile

Tell students about yourself

Hi, I’m Will Pugh from South College, and I’m running for Liberation Officer! I study Politics and IR. EID is why I’m here at Durham, that background makes me passionate about ensuring equal opportunity and is why I’m involved in societies like the 93% Club, Durham Diplomatic Society, Model UN. As a proudly gay man the challenges of discrimination are very real to me on a personal level, it has given me a lifelong commitment to prevent other from facing the same experiences.

If elected, what sort of Officer can students expect you be?

The role of Liberation Officer is vital; divides and tensions are ever present. My approach will be one of respect and inclusivity, engaging with all corners of the university community and beyond to ensure every need is heard and every resource is put to meeting them. I know that everyday students slip through the cracks, that injustice will push me to make the change this SU needs. As with any leadership role, dedication, discipline, and hard work are the prerequisites to success and I am committed to making this office the driver of change it needs to be.

Why is this role important to you?

This role is important to me because of its meaningful impact. Many students come to Durham unsure about university life, especially those who are the first in their families to attend. Even fewer understand how to translate their degree into a successful career. While we’ve made important strides in creating a more inclusive university experience, these efforts are not enough. Learning how to gain experience and understand the practical value of a degree has been a low priority, particularly for marginalised students. For instance, we heavily invest in making university accessible to students with disabilities yet provide limited support in navigating the unique challenges they face in employment. Without offering concrete guidance on careers, we are leaving a crucial gap in our support system. That’s why the role is significant to me; anything less than our best is a failure to support those most in need of it.

What is your pitch to students?

Liberation officer is a big task and if it is to live up to the standards we set for ourselves it requires leadership willing champion the change which has been long overlooked. Everyone leaves Durham with a degree: its time everyone left with opportunities too!