"I can walk away with my head held high"

It’s a privilege to be elected by your fellow students; it’s an honour to be given a mandate for a second time.

But that’s exactly what happened to both of De Montfort Students’ Union (DSU)’s outgoing executive officers, Adam Redfern and Amie Chapman.

Both are moving onto pastures new from Friday as their second year-long terms draw to a close.

Adam Redfern, outgoing VP Media and Communications, said: “I have mixed emotions. Part of me is sad to go as I have genuinely had the best two years of my life and I've met friends I will always stay in touch with.

“However, I've done two terms, I've done all I wanted to do and I can walk away with my head held high.

“I have great confidence that the new team will continue to contribute to the success of DSU in the future and it's great to see the new batch of DSU leaders come through. I am excited to see what they do and can hopefully achieve.”

Adam was first elected in February 2014. Asked what he would say to his younger self, he said: “Looking back to when I was elected I would say ‘you said you wanted to set an example for students to get involved in their students’ union and you've done that.

“Your involvement as a student along with your colleagues has led the way for past, present and future students to get involved, enhance their employability and make friends for life. Make the most of the opportunity and have a blast!’”

Adam presented the The SULETS Demon Media Awards 2016 with DSU Media and Communications Coordinator Jonathan Whitney.

Adam, who graduated with a first in Journalism in July 2014, continued: “I am so proud that I've been able to represent the passionate and extraordinarily talented students at De Montfort University (DMU).

“Their contributions have been part of the university's rise in the league tables and DSU's rise when it comes to student satisfaction.

“I can 100% say I’ve taken the opportunity with both hands and run with it as far as I can physically go. Now it’s time for the new team to take to them helm and continue our legacy, which I hope will live for a long time!”

From raising almost £1,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support and the Joe Humphries Memorial Trust on a 350-mile cycle with former VP Student Activities Stephen Burrell – ‘it was one hell of an experience’ – to guiding DSU’s resident student media group to national success, Adam has a long list of highlights.

But his favourite? “It has to be winning first team football varsity. What an experience.

“To represent my university has been a pleasure and I am honoured to have worn the shirt.”

Adam will now enjoy a well-deserved rest after five years at DMU. “I will miss the friendly nature, but also the enthusiasm and drive of everyone [at DSU],” he said.

“Everyone is determined to succeed and it is extremely admirable. I wish everyone the best of luck with the next few years.

“I will miss the amazing staff and their humour, but also their passion for making the student experience exceptional. It's a shame I won't be around to see the revamp, but to be involved in the decision-making process is an opportunity I will never forget. I can't wait to look back in ten years’ time and say I did that.

“Once I get the summer out of the way I am excited for the next chapter and I hope I can realise my sports journalism dreams.”

Asked if he has any words of wisdom for the new VP Media and Communications, Adam said: “Mike [Mayes] doesn't need much encouragement. He is the perfect successor, but one thing I will say is make the most of it. It is an incredible experience, have no regrets and you'll be fine. All the best buddy!

“Finally, thank you DSU. You will always hold a special place in my heart. Thank you for the memories!”

DSU would like to take this opportunity to thank both Adam and Amie for their service to the students of DMU. We couldn’t have done it without you!

We wish both Amie and Adam all the success for the future.

Now you've read Adam's story, click here to read about outgoing DP Education Amie!