At an open meeting on Monday, Professor Stephen Toope discussed current issues facing the University and took questions from the audience.
Over 250 administrative staff gathered in the Babbage Lecture Theatre on Monday to hear the new Vice-Chancellor in conversation with Director of Communications, Paul Mylrea. Topics covered included changing attitudes to university funding in the UK and North America, the challenges presented by transport and housing infrastructure in the Cambridge region, and Professor Toope’s strategic priorities as Vice-Chancellor.
Discussing Cambridge’s collegiate structure and devolved decision-making processes, the Vice-Chancellor explained that he saw this as a strength, not a weakness. However, he stressed that the system only worked when there were “really talented people at all levels and in all places across the University”. To attract and retain these talented staff, the Vice-Chancellor said, the University had to look carefully at the package of pay and benefits it offers. It also had to tackle the barriers presented by, among other things, the high cost of accommodation in the greater Cambridge area and the difficulty of finding affordable childcare.
Asked about his vision for Cambridge once Britain has left the European Union, the Vice-Chancellor first outlined his confidence that the University, an institution that has weathered many upheavals over its 800-year history, would find ways to thrive in the post-Brexit landscape. He also praised the quality of the University’s operational response to the challenges already encountered since the referendum last June. But to make sure that Cambridge is as well prepared as possible for thriving outside the EU, the Vice-Chancellor informed staff that he has convened a new strategy group to look at the University’s overall international strategy in the light of Brexit.
Professor Toope took several questions from the floor during the discussion. Topics addressed ranged from outreach work, access initiatives, and student mental health to the Vice-Chancellor’s views on cricket. The meeting ended with the Vice-Chancellor expressing his warm appreciation of the work done by professional and support staff in the University.
To watch a video recording of the full meeting, click here (Raven login required).