A message from the Vice Chancellor

Dear colleagues,

The end of 2022 will mark my first full calendar year as Vice Chancellor of the University. It remains a privilege, and I want to thank all of you for your hard work, unwavering enthusiasm and good nature that I have seen first-hand throughout the year.

I am excited at what the future holds for the University and there are many reasons to be proud of the success we continue to deliver. We should congratulate each other and show our encouragement going into the new year.

There have been many achievements of note, not least the outstanding experience we continue to give students at Lincoln. To all academic and professional services staff, all of you contribute to making Lincoln the special place it is, and I thank you.

There are other significant achievements to highlight: In particular, the results of the national Research Excellence Framework which has significantly improved our relative position within the ranking of the UK’s universities – congratulations to all.

In addition, the advancements in agri-technology and our vital role in the development of sustainable food production should be applauded. We also opened the South Lincolnshire Food Enterprise Zone in Holbeach in September, which was a step forward in helping Lincolnshire become a top 10 global centre for international food trade.

We have recently celebrated Lincoln becoming one of just 12 universities in the UK to be part of Arts Council England’s National Portfolio of Organisations. Together with the new creative direction of Lincoln Performing Arts Centre and the opening of the Barbican Creative Hub in 2023, we have much to look forward to.

The University’s response to the terrible situation in Ukraine has been sector leading, we are raising funds to help people here and abroad, and to date, we’ve been helping over 40 Ukrainian young people to continue university level education at Lincoln. All those involved deserve credit and thanks.

Of course, 2022 has not been without its challenges. In October we took the decision to safeguard students, with regards to fire safety, living in the Gateway and move them into new accommodation. We are all so proud of colleagues across the University who acted immediately and worked tirelessly to keep our students safe, and I place on record my heartfelt thanks.

We have also experienced issues after the implementation of the student record components of the OneUni system. There has been a huge collective effort to address those challenges from right across the University. I recognise that new issues are arising as we extend the use of the system. The team continue to work to resolve these issues and I thank colleagues for their persistence and patience.

We are living in difficult times, in a cost of living crisis, and widespread industrial action across public services and infrastructure. I recognise this is affecting our community and would like to reassure colleagues that I am absolutely committed to supporting you, and that I will do all I can to help you feel valued and rewarded for the incredible work you do.

There will be more challenges in 2023, but we will rise to them, and there will be many more successes. It is vitally important we celebrate them and look forward with optimism into the new year.

I wish all colleagues a restful and well-deserved break, a very Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year.

Professor Neal Juster
Vice Chancellor