ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ

IÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ve come to ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ after several years at Durham and Newcastle universities, and itÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™s been a massive change in every respect. My wife, April, and I have moved the full length of the country to make a permanent home here. Our sons, Fraser and Gregor, will be regular visitors when theyÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™re not at university themselves. 

As a family, we have loved exploring the area, and I have tried to immerse myself in everything the region has to offer.

IÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ve visited attractions and attended community events. IÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ve had meetings with businesses and charities. I even have a ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ Argyle shirt hanging in my office.

Through all of that, something quickly became apparent ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ“ ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ is a special place. ItÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™s fair to say the city, and the University, have got under my skin. I am already very fond of both, and excited to see what role I can play in helping them succeed in the future.

But beyond that, IÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ve always been a people person. And the lifeblood of a university are its people. Since moving, IÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ve met hundreds of current staff and students, both as part of my work and from joining the University squash team. One thing IÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™ve not had time to do so far though is meet you, our graduates.

No matter how long ago you graduated, your continued success is important to us. You are a reminder of what we do well, the knowledge and skills we pass on, and what it can inspire people to achieve. You are our ambassadors. 

Wherever you are reading this, I look forward to our paths crossing over the coming months and years.