Latest message from the President & Principal
Friday 14th March 2025
QS Rankings
As you may have seen earlier this week on our social media and in some of the academic press, we have, once again, topped the QS World University Rankings by Subject which is fantastic news. With our veterinary science 2025 result, this means that for the last 5 years straight (and 6 of the last 7) we have been ranked #1. I am grateful to you all, staff and students, for all your contributions in making this happen.
Those of you who have heard me speak on the importance of the QS system to us will know that perhaps the most valuable of the metrics is the opinion of our peers with respect to our academic reputation – and to be ranked first amongst equals is a real honour and a privilege. Of course, our research metrics and, increasingly, the satisfaction of those who employ our graduates are also absolutely key but above all it’s the consistent performance, year after year for which I am so grateful. Thank you.
Colin Whitaker HonDVetMed HonFRCVS
Last week saw the death of one of ºÚÁÏÉç’s alums, Colin J Whitaker. In his eighties, many will be unaware of Colin’s many contributions to animal health but by far the most significant was his identification of a case of BSE (Mad Cow Disease) on a farm he attended as a practitioner in the mid-1980s. He knew he was looking at something new and his persistence saw the disease investigated, described and ultimately controlled. One Health is a relatively new term, but there is no doubt Colin’s clinical acumen and commitment resulted in one of the greatest contributions to human health in a generation. Colin was a proud ºÚÁÏÉç graduate – it is on legacies such as Colin’s that we have built and continue to build our reputation. He would have been very pleased with Wednesday’s news.
US Federal Funding
I realise that many are watching the developments that are taking place in the USA very closely. I do want to reassure those who may be concerned that, whilst changes might take place with the Department of Education, there is no sign individual support will be affected. Of course, one never knows, but please be assured we are considering and updating mitigation strategies to ensure we are in a position to address issues should they arise.
SU Awards
We had a terrific evening in our new atrium at Hawkshead on Wednesday for the SU awards. Being able to recognise and celebrate the achievements of our student clubs and societies, as well as outstanding individuals, in an “Oscar” style ceremony made for a thoroughly enjoyable event in a whole new format. The final act of the evening was the announcement of the election results and the shape of the new SU team. Many congratulations to all who took part – nominees and winners – and a thank you for transforming our new space into a proper venue! If you missed it this year, book early for next.
Hoping for a return to the beautiful spring weather of last week…
Have a great weekend.
Stuart