W
elcome to this issue of QMYOU, which publishes
just a few months after I was installed as
Principal of Queen Margaret University (QMU).
Principal’s
Welcome
Both before and since joining QMU, I have been struck by
the relevance of the subjects in which research and teaching
is focused here. Indeed, that was a significant factor in my
decision to join this University. From initial teacher education
through to global health and development, QMU’s work is
making a real and practical positive difference to society in the
here and now as well as addressing the issues of the future.
And the news and features in this magazine showcase some
brilliant examples of our recent work. For example, you can
read about our plans to offer a BSc Paramedic Science, a
move which reflects the fact that paramedics entering the
profession from 2021 must have a degree. You’ll find quite
a few stories about our work fostering entrepreneurship
and the business successes of our current students and
recent graduates. Also very interesting is an interview with
Dr Anthony Schrag looking at how we are supporting artists,
theatre practitioners and other creatives to apply their skills in
social contexts – in public health, social welfare, education,
the criminal justice system and so on.
In my first few weeks at QMU, I have been spending a lot of
time getting to know staff and students, and their concerns
and their priorities. This will help us ensure that our future
strategies are the right ones. I’ve also started to meet alumni
and friends of the University, and I have been touched by
the high levels of support and commitment there is for the
University across Scotland, the UK and well beyond. I look
forward to meeting many more of you in the months and years
to come, and to nurturing and building the QMU community
across the world.
Sir Paul Grice FRSE
Principal and Vice-Chancellor
Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh
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QMYOU / Principal's Welcome