People from all walks of life come and work in the student movement for all sorts of reasons. But very few get it. And I mean really get it. Jason Dunlop is definitely one of those few. For Jason there is one fundamental question that he has asked every day since becoming Chief Executive at Cardiff University Students’ Union: what effect will this have on the students? This is because Jason’s students’ union is one for everyone, not just anyone.

I have been fortunate enough to work with and learn from Jason for two years now, and his selflessness and belief in the cause is unwavering. He sees his leadership not as an outlet for power or ego, but instead as an opportunity to serve. His service has enabled Cardiff University Students’ Union to grow beyond all recognition in his tenure and has without question improved the student experience of thousands of students in however they are involved.

In this his final year at Cardiff, some might have taken their foot off the gas but Jason has been quite the opposite. He continues to strive to build an even stronger relationship with the wider community; protect the rights of students through discussions with the police and council, and build a students’ union that enhances the student experience for all. This has been a challenging year.

Jason is famous for his motivational one-liners. Personal highlights for me are “You have to climb the mountain before you can appreciate the view” and “The University have made me angry, they didn’t want to make me angry.”

But please do not just take my word for it:

“I have found that despite being such a busy man, Jason will always find time to help the officers. For me personally he has been invaluable for discussing ideas and helping me get the message across that I want to. I wouldn’t want anyone else in my corner.” - Cari Davies, Athletic Union President.

“Despite only joining the organisation in November 2012, I can safely say that Jason’s words of guidance and advice have helped my professional development already.” – Dominic Stone, Policy Advisor.

“If you want something done, you go and talk to Jason. His knowledge of the University is second to none. He makes a real difference, it’s just a shame that he doesn’t get the recognition from students.” – Megan David, Welfare and Community Officer.

This year, despite illness, Jason has guided the organisation through tough change. A new senior team at the University has awarded us a third standstill block grant in a row presenting us with difficult staffing decisions. Expertly managed, Jason restructured while maintaining excellent staff morale. We are ‘back in the black’ after our hardest trading year ever and few people could achieve that while maintaining such confidence from the University and inspiring them to spend almost £1million on our building.

This award is the best thank you the movement could give a friend we will sorely miss.