Professor Jackie Carter from The University of Manchester has been recognised with a prestigious Culture Shift Award for her exceptional leadership and commitment to advancing disability inclusion within higher education.
Jackie has dedicated her career to championing equality, diversity, and inclusion, with a particular focus on ensuring that disabled staff and students are supported and empowered. She has long been committed to widening participation in education, creating pathways for individuals from underrepresented groups to excel in academia and beyond. Her extensive work in the field of data science has seen her mentor and guide numerous students into successful careers, and she has played a key role in promoting inclusive teaching practices within the University and across the sector.
Disability Academic Lead
When she became The University of Manchester’s EDI Disability Academic Lead in 2023, Jackie set out to achieve two major goals – to ensure that disability is discussed as prominently as other protected characteristics, and to move from dialogue to tangible action. She points out that 24% of the working age population are disabled, and 80% of disabilities are not visible – like hers. Under her leadership, the University has made significant strides in embedding disability inclusion into its institutional priorities, ensuring that it is a core consideration in shaping policies and practices.
A key achievement in Jackie’s leadership has been the creation of the ‘Let’s Talk Disability’ podcast series, in which she hosts two guests per episode – one senior leader and one staff member or postgraduate researcher who is Deaf, disabled, or chronically ill. The conversations allow her guests to share their perspectives while committing to ‘just one thing’ they will take away and act on. This simple but powerful format has significantly shifted the conversation around disability inclusion at the University, elevating it into previously untapped areas.
Culture of openness understanding and proactive change
Jackie has been instrumental in developing a culture of openness, understanding and proactive change. She is a passionate advocate for role models in the disability space, drawing on her own lived experience as a deaf, dizzy and disabled individual. Her leadership has fostered an environment where disabled staff and students feel empowered to share their challenges and aspirations without fear of stigma. Through her mentorship and advocacy, she has inspired others, leading to several colleagues receiving nominations for major awards – a testament to the ripple effect that her work has created across the University.
Jackie’s efforts have been recognised at the highest levels, influencing the University’s Manchester 2035 strategy and reinforcing the Vice-Chancellor’s vision of being ‘Inclusive by Design’. Her contributions have ensured that disabled staff and students are not only heard but actively involved in shaping a more inclusive academic community.
Jackie reflects on her work
Reflecting on her award win, Jackie said:
I am truly honoured to receive the Culture Shift Award. This recognition is not just for me, but for every disabled staff member, student and ally who has worked tirelessly to make our University a more inclusive place. Change happens when we listen, learn and take action together. I dedicate this award to my colleagues and peers who continue to challenge barriers and push for a future where everyone has an equal chance to thrive.
Vicki Baars, Head of Culture Transformation at Culture Shift said:
Through her work, Jackie has foregrounded disability inclusion, ensuring that disabled staff and students have a voice in shaping a more inclusive culture.She truly leads by example and lives the principle of ‘Nothing about us without us’ – her work remains a vital force for creating lasting change at the university.
