THE family of an inspirational lecturer from Co Antrim, who died after a battle with cancer, have spoken of their pride that an award has been established in her memory.
Barbara Macaulay (63) from Whitehead had taught at Northern Regional College since 2004, primarily based at the Newtownabbey campus, where she was a member of the Access and Essential Skills Programme.
Following her death last October, her family said they wanted to "do something that would commemorate her work" and her commitment to her students.
Her brother Tom McMullan (74) also said they wanted to establish an award to give the further education sector the "recognition it deserves for the life-changing opportunities it offers people".
This week, the inaugural Barbara Macaulay Personal Achievement Award was presented to Laura McComb during a special ceremony at Northern Regional College.
At the family’s request, one of Mrs Macaulay’s pupils was chosen by staff as the first recipient of the award.
"Firstly, we wanted to recognise the work of the Access and Essential Skills Programme," said Mr McMullan.
"Secondly, Barbara was passionate about making sure her students made the maximum progress possible, so we wanted to make a personal award to a student who, in the view of Barbara’s former colleagues had made the most impressive personal achievement during the course.
"Finally, so many young and not-so-young people benefit from the work of further education.
"We wanted to acknowledge this by making our own small contribution.
"Quite often, the further education sector doesn’t get the recognition it deserves for the life-changing opportunities it offers people."
Mr McMullan added that his sister "understood the challenges students had but, likewise, the opportunities that successfully completing these courses could have for them".
"Her own journey in life was recognised by the students she taught and we wanted to continue to facilitate that, hence the whole idea."
Ms McComb from Belfast, who has just completed a two-year part-time access diploma at the college, said she was "honoured" to have received the accolade.
"I’m honestly shocked but also incredibly humbled," she said.
"Barbara was such an inspirational lecturer, and I am delighted that she is to be remembered in this way, not just for me but also for future students."
Ian Jinks from the Northern Regional College said it was a "fitting tribute" for Mrs Macauley, who he described as a "guiding light for so many students and her commitment and support knew no bounds".
"The award will be a lasting legacy and a fitting way of ensuring that Barbara’s selfless nature and commitment to her students will be remembered," he said.
