Professors, cleaners, students and administrative staff were amongst those highlighted on a “Wall of Women” last week at the University of Bath, as part of International Women’s Day celebrations.

Staff and students at Bath were encouraged to dedicate a plaque to a woman at the University who has inspired or supported them.

The plaques were displayed at the library on the Claverton Down campus from 3-7 March 2025.

It was the idea of Professor Turi King, Director of the Milner Centre for Evolution at the University.

She said: “I’m really happy to spearhead this event for the University of Bath.

“It’s an event I ran at my previous university and I know from experience that it is such a great feel-good celebration of women at the University.

“Not only is it for students to recognise staff and students but I’m also keen to highlight the ‘hidden’ women at the University.

“People tend to know the lecturers, but there are so many women behind the scenes who are just so incredible be they technicians, administrative staff, our cleaners and other support staff.

“Every woman who has a plaque dedicated to them will be emailed to let them know, and the week after the event staff will be able to come and collect their plaque.

“I love seeing them above people’s desks in the months that follow, reminding them just how great they are.”

One of the women working behind the scenes at the University who had a plaque dedicated to them is Dr Marianne Harkins, the Director of the Faculty Technical Services.

She looks after the science lab facilities at the University, overseeing a large team of technicians who do everything from setting up practical sessions for students, to working in labs supporting researchers.

She said: “It was lovely to find out that someone had written a plaque for me, but also to have the chance to read the amazing plaques for other women here at the University.

“There was so much laughter and positivity at the spot in the library where people were writing their happy thoughts.

“I’m grateful to work with so many wonderful women and I was pleased to be able to thank them out loud as part of this wonderful initiative.”