Professor Abigail Woods, Pro Vice Chancellor and Head of College of Arts, Social Sciences & Humanities, has decided to leave the University after more than five years at Lincoln. Abigail shared the message below with colleagues earlier this week.

Dear colleagues, 

After much reflection, I have decided that when my sabbatical comes to an end, I will not return to my position as PVC / Head of College of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities. After 5+ years leading this College and the former College of Arts though a period spanning the Covid pandemic and successive restructures, it is time for me to take stock, refresh, and look for a new role at my own pace. I hope to ease the leadership transition by leaving the University now, before the new academic year gets underway.  

It’s been an immense privilege to lead such a vibrant and dedicated community of academics, technicians and professional services colleagues. It’s been a difficult journey in a very challenging environment, but you have risen to that challenge in your tireless efforts to support our students, deliver outstanding teaching, and perform excellent, impactful, research and knowledge exchange. I’m very proud of the gains you have made in NSS performance, grant capture and regional impact, and of your efforts to decolonise, diversify and internationalise the curriculum. Thank you for your willingness to step up, flex and innovate in response to changing circumstances. My especial thanks to current and former Heads of School and College Directors, who have been a joy to work with. I have never ceased to be inspired by your dedication, drive, constructive criticism, and ability to see around corners. 

During my time in post, I am honoured to have had the opportunity to envision and enact the University’s first ever strategy for Arts, Culture and Heritage, which has driven the University’s development into a creative cultural powerhouse. The Lincoln Arts Centre is now truly a jewel in its crown and the Barbican Creative Hub is set to follow suit, in boosting the University’s reputation and transforming lives, communities, and economies throughout Greater Lincolnshire and beyond. 

I am very grateful to colleagues from across the university who have made all of these achievements possible. I shall continue watching the University of Lincoln from afar and look forward to seeing the College thrive under new leadership. 

Thank you for your trust, support and camaraderie. I wish you all the best for the future.