14 July 2026
University mum and son graduates have both been awarded the Sir Tom Cowie Sunderland Award
Graduation is always a proud occasion, but for a mother and son from the University of Sunderland, it also marks an incredible transformation in their family’s fortunes – thanks to the generous legacy of a north-east entrepreneur.
Vicky Graham and Jake Judson were both been awarded the Sir Tom Cowie Sunderland Award. Vicky won her award in 2018, and Jake graduates from the University as the 2025/2026 Sir Tom Cowie Sunderland scholar.
The award was established in memory of the Wearside-born entrepreneur who died in 2012, aged 89. Sir Tom Cowie was a long-term supporter of the University and passionately believed in its principles of affording those with talent, regardless of background, the opportunity to enter higher education.
As part of his legacy, the Sir Tom Cowie Sunderland Award was established to support students in achieving their full potential. Jake, 21, graduated with a Modern Music Industries degree with NAME (the Northern Academy of Music Education) run by the University.
Jake’s dream is to one day own and run his own music venue. He has been supported by the Sir Tom Cowie Sunderland Award to develop his skills and now has ambitious plans to run gigs and festivals in the local area.
Jake said: “The Sir Tom Cowie Sunderland Award has given me the opportunity to focus fully on my studies and professional development. It has provided me with the confidence and freedom to take up opportunities, gain experience and invest time in developing my craft without the pressures that many students face alongside their studies.
“It has been a huge encouragement to know that the Sir Tom Cowie Trust believed in my potential and was willing to invest in my future.
“Having that support meant I could take advantage of opportunities that have strengthened my skills, industry knowledge and professional network. I have been able to focus on creating and developing work that will support my future career, which would have been much more difficult without the scholarship.
“Now, I hope to build a sustainable career in the creative industries, working on projects that allow me to develop as both a performer and producer, while contributing to the vibrant music scene in the north-east.”
Vicky, 41, won her award while studying in the final year of her Primary Education degree at the University. Before coming to the University, Vicky spent 15 years working in financial services, specialising in sales and mortgage and financial advice.
The Sir Tom Cowie Sunderland Award recognised her potential as an educator, and Vicky has more than proved worthy. She is now Associate Head of School for Professional Development and International Education at the University.
She said: “I am delighted that Jake has benefitted from the generous and prestigious legacy that Sir Tom championed. The scholarship has enabled Jake to throw himself into his studies and shape his future without financial constraint, creating a portfolio of skills, experiences and professional connections that will support his career in music production and performance.
“Just as importantly, it has given him the confidence to make the most of every opportunity available to him and to look to the future with ambition and optimism.”
Vicky and Jake are the first mother and son to be awarded the Tom Cowie Sunderland Award – but, says Vicky, there may still be potential future awardees in their family.
“Watch this space – I have two younger sons, and I would be absolutely thrilled to support them in studying at Sunderland, a university that has done so much for both me and Jake.
“The University of Sunderland has played a transformative role in our family's journey, so the prospect of future scholars is certainly not out of the question.”
The University offers tens of thousands of pounds every year in scholarships and bursaries to both applicants and current students. To find out more go to Scholarships and Bursaries at the University of Sunderland.