Christmas message from Vice-Chancellor Sir David Bell

Wednesday, 09 December 2015

It has been another very busy year at the University of Reading. Throughout, I have been enormously impressed by the commitment and dedication shown by staff and students alike. 

Inevitably in a community as large as ours, we experience a gamut of emotions. We have lost some dear friends and colleagues and mourned their passing. Yet at December graduation ceremonies, we are reminded of the success our students achieve in their studies.

I recognise too that 2015 has brought uncertainty for many colleagues as we go through necessary changes to our professional and administrative services. That speaks to the increasing turbulence in the higher education sector in which universities cannot afford to stand still in the face of global competition. At the same time, outstanding teaching and research continues to be a hallmark of our university.

2016 is a very special year in the history of the University as we celebrate our 90th anniversary. Amidst the fun, it will be an opportunity to reflect with pride on the past and look forward with confidence.

Now though as 2015 draws to a close, I wish you a peaceful, pleasant and relaxing Christmas holiday.

Sir David Bell KCB

Vice-Chancellor