Cooper Healey, Manager of Manchester Student Homes at the University of Manchester, is more than just a dedicated professional; she's a driving force in strengthening the vital connection between universities and their surrounding communities. As the newly appointed President of the International Town and Gown Association (ITGA) for 2024-2025, Cooper brings a wealth of experience and a clear vision for the association's future.
Her commitment to fostering global collaboration was recently showcased in Manchester, where she successfully hosted the UKTGA Conference 2024 and the ITGA Strategic Planning Meeting. These events, held in her home city, not only solidified Manchester's position as a leading destination for impactful gatherings but also served as a crucial step in developing the ITGA's ambitious three-year strategic plan.
The Manchester Convention Bureau sat down with Cooper to discuss her experience bringing these significant meetings to Manchester, her vision for the ITGA, and the importance of town and gown relationships on a global scale.
Can you tell us about the conference that you hosted in Manchester?
The UKTGA Conference 2024, themed "Building Bridges: Innovating Together for Sustainable and Inclusive Communities," was held from November 11-13 at the Hyatt Regency in Manchester. It brought together experts and leaders to discuss innovative strategies for strengthening relationships between universities and their surrounding communities. Additionally, the ITGA Strategic Planning Meeting was a key part of the event, focusing on developing the association's three-year strategic plan.
What benefits did the conference bring to your university, your community and you personally?
The conference significantly benefited the University of Manchester and the Manchester Student Partnership which includes Manchester Metropolitan University and Manchester City Council by enhancing its reputation as a hub for impactful academic and community collaborations. For the benefit of our local communities, it fostered stronger ties with the university, promoting mutual understanding and cooperation. Personally, it was a rewarding experience to see the successful execution of such a significant event and to witness the positive impact it had on both the university and ultimately the community. I loved hosting so many colleagues from across the UK and USA in our fantastic city, it was a great moment to show Manchester off.
What feedback did you receive from attendees about their experience in Manchester?
Attendees praised Manchester for its vibrant atmosphere, excellent facilities, and the warm hospitality they received. Many highlighted the city's rich cultural heritage and the seamless organisation of the conference as standout aspects of their experience. We held an event at The Rates Hall which is a stunning venue and we may have visited a couple of Manchester finest drinking establishments on the way back to the Hyatt Regency, one of which had an adult ball pool which one or two attendees particularly enjoyed.
Did you have any favourite moments or highlights from the conferences?
One of my favourite moments was the opening keynote delivered jointly by Professor Duncan, Ivison, Vice Chancellor of The University of Manchester and Councillor Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council, which set an inspiring tone for the entire conference with their focus on the strength of collaboration in town gown settings. Additionally, the collaborative workshops and panel discussions were particularly memorable, as they sparked meaningful conversations and innovative ideas for future town and gown collaborations.
What do you consider to be Manchester’s strengths as a conference destination?
Firstly, its people Manchester people are known for their warm hospitality, resilience, and vibrant spirit, making the city a welcoming and dynamic place to visit - they’ll look after you. Beyond that, Manchester's strengths as a conference destination include its rich history of industry and innovation, its diverse and vibrant cultural scene, and its excellent transport links. The city's extensive range of venues and accommodation options also make it an ideal location for hosting large-scale events.
What support did you receive from the Manchester Convention Bureau and what does being an Mbassador mean to you?
The Manchester Convention Bureau provided invaluable support, we were a really very small team trying to pull together an international conference with high level speakers and zero budget. I was so grateful for the support from the team such as assistance with venue selection, accommodation booking, and promotional activities. Being an Mbassador means representing Manchester's dynamic and welcoming spirit, and it is an honour to showcase the city as a premier destination for conferences and events.
What advice would you give to others considering hosting a conference in Manchester?
I would advise others to take full advantage of the resources and support offered by the Manchester Convention Bureau. Their expertise can significantly ease the planning process. Additionally, embracing the city's unique cultural and historical assets can enhance the overall experience for attendees, making the event truly memorable.
