Natascha Mcveigh, Senior Lecturer in Crisis and Disaster Management at Lincoln International Business School, has been recognised for her lifelong contribution to teaching and learning at a prestigious awards event in her native Germany.

Natascha was presented with the Role Model in Lifelong Learning Award in the category of Pathway Qualifications on Wednesday 18 September – the National Lifelong Learning Day in Germany.

The ceremony, held at Hans-Böckler Haus in Berlin, was hosted by the German Federal President, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, and attended by around 300 guests including leading politicians, the German First Lady Elke Büdenbender, and industry leaders from across the country.

Natascha started her career in the German Air Force, before attaining a Business Administration Degree at the DAA-Wirtschaftsakademie, and finally a MSc in Marketing at the University of Lincoln.  

Today she brings those skills and experience to her teaching role in Crisis and Disaster Management within Lincoln International Business School. Speaking after receiving her award, Natascha said:

“This award means a lot to me and is a reminder of the power of resilience and education, and I hope it inspires others to keep pursuing knowledge and opportunities no matter the challenges they face.

“It was an honour to share the stage with some of the most influential figures in my home country of Germany.

“I believe in the principle that learning is power, and that people can achieve great things in education with the right support and options available to them.

“I have always wanted to make a positive difference in people’s lives, and I am grateful that I have the opportunity to do so every day at the University of Lincoln.”

Natascha’s award also recognises her pioneering work in shaping the University of Lincoln’s educational partnership with the German DAA Wirtschaftsakademie. Establishing a unique pathway concept that enables German military personnel and professionals, who often face significant obstacles to pursuing higher education, to gain Postgraduate qualifications.

Through innovative pathway qualifications, this initiative opens doors for learners who may otherwise be excluded from Postgraduate programmes, offering them a chance to build on prior professional and vocational achievements.

Susann Dengler, CEO of German Job Centre, who presented Natascha with her award said:

“There are educational journeys that are truly symbolic of the power of lifelong learning. They tell of courage, of new beginnings, and of the willingness to embrace completely new paths. Natascha McVeigh’s story is one of them.”

Lezlee-Jane Stones, Interim Dean of Lincoln International Business School said:

“We are all very proud of Natascha’s achievement, and the award is fully deserved.

“This accolade reflects her dedication as a lecturer, researcher, and role model, as well as the University of Lincoln’s commitment to developing global partnerships that open education to new communities.”