11 June 2001

DUSA is on the threshold of a major redevelopment which will make it the best student union in Scotland and arguably the best in the UK, retiring president of the Dundee University Students' Association David Cunningham told guests at the President's Annual Dinner in the Ustinov Room on Saturday.

Completing his sabbatical term of office as probably DUSA's most successful ever student president, the psychology graduate referred to the association's current £4.5 million plan to extend and refurbish the DUSA building. David told the 112 guests including students, staff and representatives of the local community: "This has been a particularly exciting year for DUSA and there is more to come. None of this could have happened without the executive of DUSA who have been an absolutely excellent team"

Guests, who included the Principal Sir Alan Langlands, Chief Constable of Tayside Police John Vine, representatives of Dundee City Council and Dr David Duncan who is due to take up his post as University Secretary later this month, heard tributes paid to a range of students and staff for outstanding contributions.

Those honoured included:

• Betty Patterson for 20 years of service to DUSA and as a friend to staff and students
• Eddie Grimes for 10 years service to DUSA "a father figure and a shoulder to cry on"
• Allen Mackenzie for his help and advice
• Society of the Year - DARE whose members have made expeditions to Russia,Tanzania and Nepal. The prize was accepted by Catriona McLellan.
• Most Progressive Society - the Conservative Society. The prize was accepted by Steve Richmond
• Editors Award - Andrew Quigley, Student Times
• Best student contributor - Stephanie Allen, Student Times
• Debater of the Year - Mark McDonald
• Best Individual contributor - Ian Petrie
• Best Maiden Speaker - Robert Young

  The prize for an outstanding contribution to student life went to Lisa Shine and Julia Alexander who recently established an all-student help agency, Nightline.

  Wishing the president well in his chosen career in the navy, Chris Bustin deputy president presented David Cunningham with a traditional dirk of extraordinary proportions.