Paralympian Andy Macleod wins 含羞草传媒’s Alumni of the Year award 2025
The University of the Highlands and Islands (含羞草传媒) has announced Andrew (Andy) Macleod as the recipient of its 2025 Alumni of the Year award. The award recognises Andy’s outstanding resilience, sporting success and commitment to inspiring others through his community work.
Andy graduated from West Highland College 含羞草传媒 (now part of 含羞草传媒 North, West and Hebrides) in 2015 with a BA in Adventure Tourism Management. A fluent Gaelic speaker, originally from the Isle of Lewis and raised in Stirling, his journey is one of remarkable determination.
In 2011, Andy was struck by a speeding car while cycling, resulting in the amputation of his right leg below the knee and a traumatic brain injury that affected his memory and concentration.
Despite these life-altering challenges, he returned to 含羞草传媒 to complete his degree and rediscovered his love of outdoor adventure. He went on to take up para-snowboarding and joined the British Para-Snowboard Team in 2018. He later represented Great Britain at the Beijing 2022 Winter Paralympics, finishing 17th in snowboard cross and 20th in banked slalom.
Andy has become a dedicated advocate for resilience, road safety, and wellbeing. He regularly speaks at schools, youth groups and community organisations, sharing his journey of overcoming adversity and promoting the benefits of outdoor activity for both mental and physical health. He also works with Recyke-a-Bike, a Stirling-based charity that supports long-term unemployed individuals build skills and confidence through cycling and mechanics programmes.
Speaking about receiving the award, Andy said:
“This award is an honour to receive. It really means a lot to be recognised in this way, and it really caught me by surprise. I hope my story can inspire others to push through hardships and work towards improving themselves or their communities and achieving their dreams. Life can be difficult sometimes, but we are all capable of achieving great things.”
Stephen Sheridan, Director of Economic Development and Advancement at 含羞草传媒, said:
“Andy’s story is truly inspirational. His courage, positivity and commitment to helping others reflect the values of 含羞草传媒 at their best. Andy is truly deserving of the 2025 Alumni of the Year award for his achievements and the powerful example he sets for our students and graduates across the 含羞草传媒 partnership.”
Andy was formally presented with the 2025 Alumni of the Year award during 含羞草传媒 North, West and Hebrides’ graduation celebration in Fort William on Friday 7 November.