Living Black at University Commission Report 2022/23 50 Living Black at University Commission Report 2022/23 51 Trust isn't something that sprouts overnight. It requires patience, care and persistent nurturing. Since the publication of the report, it has become clear that building trust is an incremental process. It begins with listening, as we did when we gathered the stories and experiences of Black students. It continues with action, as universities take steps to address the challenges and inequities uncovered by the research. As a researcher and the project manager for this research, I witnessed first-hand the mistrust and scepticism Black students and others feel. Yet I’ve also seen how trust and hope can start to build when promises are transformed into tangible actions. One of the most encouraging aspects of this journey has been witnessing the ripple effect of our research. The Living Black at University report has not been a static document; it has become a dynamic force for change, especially through the work of the Commission. We’ve seen that some universities and accommodation providers have embraced its findings as a call to action, and it's been inspiring to see our work spark conversations, ignite debates and catalyse further research and initiatives. While it's essential to celebrate the progress made, we must also acknowledge that our work is far from complete. The Living Black at University report was a starting point, but it is not the end of the journey. There's a long road ahead, one that requires continued dedication, innovation, and collaboration. We must be prepared for moments of frustration and setbacks, but resolute in our determination to continuously change things for the better. We must keep pushing forward, advocating for policies that address systemic inequities, challenging discrimination wherever it exists, and amplifying the voices of Black students and staff. Trust must be at the heart of it all. Since the publication of the report, it has become clear that building trust is an incremental process. “ OUR COMMISSIONERS Professor Iyiola Solanke Jacques Delors Professor of EU Law at University of Oxford and Founder of the Black Female Professors Forum (BFPF) Chair Victoria Tolmie-Loverseed Assistant Chief Executive of Standards at Unipol Rebecca O’Hare Interim Deputy Director of Residential Services at the University of Leeds Sharon O’Donnell Head of Customer Services & Residences Life at Newcastle University Amelia Pulvertaft Belonging, Equity & Engagement Co-ordinator at Unite Students Co-ordinator Sam Kingsley Head of Belonging & Engagement at Unite Students Convenors Jenny Shaw Higher Education External Engagement Director at Unite Students Jen Steadman Higher Education Communications Executive at Unite Students Communications Partner Dr Sammy Li Executive Member at AMOSSHE and Assistant Director of Student Affairs (EDI) at University of Birmingham Melissa Browne Chair Elect at CUBO and Deputy Director of Commercial Services and Estates at University of Kent Jordan Meates Communications & IT Officer at ASRA and Campus Services Manager at Sheffield Hallam University Commissioners Nicola Frampton Insight Manager at Student Minds Tara Leach Head of Race Equality Charter at Advance HE Andy Owusu Psychology PhD student & former Office for Students Mental Health Project Officer for Black Students at London South Bank University Jo Nuckley Head of Outreach & Insight at the Office of the Independent Adjudicator for Higher Education (OIA) Associate to the Commission