Graduate ‘truly honoured’ to be awarded scholarship and join global events agency
A University of Chester graduate has secured a career-enhancing internship with a global events agency, just weeks after completing her degree.
Abigail Gray, who completed a BA in Events Management and Marketing Management, has been awarded the 2026 Vanessa Cotton Scholarship, recognising outstanding emerging talent within the meetings and events industry. The scholarship commemorates Vanessa Cotton, a respected UK meetings and events industry leader who passed away in 2010 following a battle with cancer.
Presented in partnership between BCD Meetings and Events and the MPI UK and Ireland Chapter, the scholarship provides aspiring event professionals with a unique opportunity to launch their careers in the sector. As part of the award, Abigail has joined BCD Meetings and Events (BCD M&E) as a Graduate Event Co-ordinator within the company’s Meetings Management Life Sciences team.
Abigail attended an awards ceremony in London to receive the scholarship alongside Kate Skidmore from Leeds Beckett University. Sponsored by The Langham, London, the event brought together industry professionals, scholarship supporters and colleagues to celebrate the achievements of the scholarship recipients.
Nathalie Paxton, senior director, account management and sales president of BCD M&E said: “Our two chosen recipients demonstrated remarkable potential and a clear alignment with the values of the scholarship. We’re excited to welcome them into BCD M&E and support the next stage of their careers.”
Abigail said: “I am truly honoured to be awarded the Vanessa Cotton Scholarship and to be joining such a wonderful company. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to continue developing my skills and to pursue a career I’m genuinely passionate about.
“Being welcomed into BCD M&E was a really special moment. It was a fantastic opportunity to meet the team, learn more about the company culture and gain insight into the incredible events I'll be involved in. I’m excited to start this new chapter and continue developing my career within such a supportive organisation.”
Programme Leader for BA Events Management at Chester Business School, Dr Iris Lo, said: “Abigail’s success reflects both her dedication to the profession and the strong industry-focused learning opportunities available at the University of Chester. Her appointment with BCD M&E marks the beginning of an exciting career within a global organisation renowned for delivering innovative meetings and event solutions.”
Image: Abigail Gray, right, with Kate Skidmore (left) and, centre, Hannah Kelly, Vice President for Meetings Management UK.