Vice-Chancellor's blog and selected speeches

Updates from the VC’s Office about the work and activities of the President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Surrey.

Speech– Dongbei University of Finance & Economics Freshman Opening Ceremony Welcome Address: The Educational Journey, 3 September 2019

Professor LV Wei, Chairman Xia, Vice President Zhao, Committee members, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, and of course the reason we are all here today: new students – good morning! Today I would like to speak to you about what it means to be on an ‘educational journey’.


Blog — Public engagement in academia: the University’s role and responsibility

Not long ago I wrote a blog about our community engagement the University of Surrey. Recently I had the chance to discuss another thread in the engagement tapestry: academics sharing and discussing their research with the public. This was the inaugural event in the ‘In Conversation with the Vice-Chancellor’ series of discussions; it was a […]


Blog — Building resilience and resourcefulness: a key to good student support

The pressures and distractions for students today are many and varied. Hopes and expectations around university acceptance give way to worries about fees and funding, which then are superseded by concerns about study, employability, career and job progression. All these can take their toll on wellbeing, and on mental health. 


Speech – ‘Embracing Risk; Creating Opportunities’: Young Universities Summit Welcome Address, 26 June 2019

  Good morning to you all, and a very warm welcome to Surrey and the first co-hosted THE conference! I feel very privileged that Surrey is jointly hosting the 2019 Young Universities Summit. I would like to thank THE for this wonderful opportunity, and the University of Wollongong for their ongoing and valued partnership. 


Blog – Scientists, gardeners and higher education: a university’s role in the community

  There is no doubt that universities are facing unprecedented challenges; Brexit uncertainty, pension issues and public debates about the purpose and value of universities.


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