The Distinguished Graduate of the Year Award is sponsored by Allstate and recognises graduates for outstanding achievement in their chosen field.
Each year a bespoke trophy is designed and produced by an Ulster University Belfast School of Art graduate. This year’s designer was Graduate in Residence and artist, Laura Bragger.
This year we were honoured to present the prestigious Ulster University Distinguished Graduate Award to Sam Pollock, CBE. The award was presented to Sam during an Ulster University graduation ceremony at the ICC in Belfast on Thursday, 19 December 2024.
Sam Pollock
On receiving news of his Award, Sam said:
"My career has seen many highs and lows, but throughout I have been honoured to meet and work with such dedicated and passionate people. I am very thankful to Ulster University for recognising my work in this way and I am grateful to Allstate for their sponsorship of this award and in doing so their demonstration of the value they place on partnership working with Ulster University."
Sam, a two time graduate from Ulster University, has had a career spanning five decades, transforming lives along the way. As a Probation Officer and later as Governor of HM Prison Maze, Sam showed courage and dedication during Northern Ireland’s Troubles, managing a politically sensitive prison population with integrity and care. For his significant contributions to criminal justice, he was awarded an OBE in 2004.
In 1994, Sam became Chief Probation Officer in South Wales before returning to Northern Ireland to serve as Chief Executive of the Police Ombudsman’s Office. Under his leadership, the institution became a trusted authority in transparency and accountability. In 2022, his extraordinary public service was recognised with a CBE.
Even in retirement, Sam continued to serve. As Chair of the Western Health Trust, he guided the organisation through the immense challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, making compassionate yet difficult decisions that saved lives.
Sam Pollock and family
Thomas McLaughlin, Allstate, commented:
“We are delighted to award Sam Pollock with the prestigious Allstate / Ulster University Distinguished Graduate Award 2024. Sam has had an incredible career, dedicating his life to others, which mirrors Allstate's values in giving back to the community. Sam, congratulations on all your many achievements.”
Allstate
Kindly sponsored by Allstate
