Long-Serving Staff Members Recognised with College Awards Ceremony

Our annual Long Service Awards celebrate staff who have dedicated more than a decade to the College. This year’s awards ceremony in Broadgates Hall recognised six members of staff with a collective 125 years of committed service. Each was thanked by the Master for their dedication to their roles and their contribution to College life.

Our longest award this year went to Scout Beero Lal, whose 30 years at Pembroke make her one of our longest serving members of staff.

10 Years

Adrian Dempsey – Night Porter

Adrian joined Pembroke over a decade ago, having first worked with the security team during the construction of the Rokos Quad. He is a now a much-loved part of the Lodge team, known by students and staff alike for his warmth, humour and booming voice which can be heard echoing across the College. He is remembered fondly by past students, who often ask after him when they return. Adrian has been helping to keep Pembroke safe for over ten years, and his reliability, commitment and heart make him a vital part of College life.

Beata Rauk – Hall Supervisor

Beata joined Pembroke in 2015 as a Barista in Farthings, before quickly progressing to Hall Supervisor. Known for her enthusiasm and reliability, she now plays a key role in the running of the Hall and its systems. Her commitment and adaptability are greatly appreciated by colleagues and students alike. She is also known by her colleagues for her love of all things purple, and of her beloved cats!

15 Years

Andy Bennett – Head Chef

Andy began at Pembroke in 2010 as an apprentice chef, having quit a plumbing course when he discovered an interest in cooking while on a part-time job in a local pub. Over 15 years, his talent, commitment and leadership have seen him rise to the position of Head Chef. He is highly respected by the team, who look to him for guidance, inspiration and encouragement.

25 Years

Mina Limbu – Scout

Mina has been a familiar and friendly face on the Main Site for 15 years, particularly around Old Quad. Always ready with a smile and a warm greeting, her cheerful presence helps to make Pembroke feel like home for all who live and work here.

Asha Lal – GAB Scout

Asha’s 25 years of dedicated service to Pembroke mean she has seen more changes than most at the College, from staircase refurbishments to the building of GAB2. She has maintained high standards throughout, and her care and commitment to the role and to the College community are deeply appreciated.

Along with Beero (see below), Asha can be relied upon for her biannual appearances on Main Site – for Christmas and the Garden Party!

Simon Thomson – Head of SOCIT

Simon joined Pembroke in 2000 and, working with four Masters and four Bursars along the way, has been at the heart of the College’s technological development ever since. He has grown our IT services from a one-man team to what is now the University’s largest College consortium, SOCIT, and he is an active member of the University IT community. Beyond his leadership in College and University IT, Simon is a skilled photographer ad saxophonist!

30 Years

Beero Lal – GAB Scout

Beero has dedicated 30 years of service to Pembroke, placing her among the College’s longest-serving members of staff. Over three decades she has seen the evolution of the Geoffrey Arthur Building and has remained a constant and reliable support throughout. Her loyalty, hard work, and quiet professionalism are greatly valued, and we are proud to celebrate her exceptional contribution. 

Congratulations to all who received their Long Service award, and a warm thank you for being such integral members of the College community.