AUCSO Annual Awards 2026 open for entries

The Association of University Chief Security Officers (AUCSO), the leading organisation for security professionals working across Higher and Further Education worldwide, has announced that entries for its Annual Awards 2026 are open.

Celebrating excellence across campus security, the AUCSO Awards recognise the outstanding achievements of security officers, managers, and teams within member institutions. Last year saw a record number of entries across all categories, reflecting the exceptional work taking place on university and college campuses in the UK and across the globe. Entry is free and open exclusively to AUCSO members.

Award Categories

AUCSO Security Officer of the Year

Recognising an individual officer who has consistently demonstrated exceptional professionalism, commitment, and performance, going above and beyond the expectations of their role.

AUCSO Security Team of the Year

Awarded to a team whose collective response, teamwork, or involvement in an incident required them to operate beyond their day-to-day duties, showing courage, resilience, and unwavering support for the campus community.

AUCSO Security Manager of the Year

Honouring a manager who has delivered meaningful innovation, contributed positively to the wider security community, driven improvements in risk reduction, and shown exemplary leadership.

AUCSO Initiative of the Year

Celebrating a security team that has implemented a unique and innovative initiative that has enhanced the security operation, benefitted students, or added value to the wider institution.

Commenting on the launch, AUCSO Chief Operating Officer Julie Barker said:

“We are delighted to open entries for the AUCSO Annual Awards 2026. Every year we are inspired by the outstanding work our members share with us – from exceptional frontline service to innovative initiatives that make a real difference to campus communities. The calibre of entries is consistently high, and we look forward to celebrating the remarkable achievements of our members across the UK and around the world.”

The deadline for entries is Sunday 11 January 2026. Judging will take place week commencing Monday 26 January 2026, with the shortlist announced on Monday 23 February 2026. Winners will be revealed at the Gala Dinner on the final evening of the AUCSO Annual Conference on Wednesday 15 April 2026, hosted at the University of Exeter.

AUCSO also warmly encourages entries from member Further Education institutions. FE colleges play a vital role in the wider education landscape, and the Association is committed to recognising and championing the exceptional security professionals within this sector. AUCSO welcomes FE organisations to take part in the Awards and invites those not yet members to join the Association and benefit from its growing global network, resources, and professional development opportunities.