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Colleagues and dear friends,
Whilst I have the honour, indeed the privilege
of introducing a new Vice Chancellor, Professor Michael Gunn,
this event also marks the passing of an era
as we express a heartfelt gratitude
and say goodbye to Michael's predecessor,
Professor Christine King.
We believe that we have in Professor Gunn
a new Vice Chancellor
to lead the University through the next challenging
but positive phase
in its development.
I would like to pay tribute to the work of Lord Bill Morris as Chancellor.
The University has gained enormously from the contribution that he has made
to this University.
I will take with me a wealth of memories,
memories of a University whose values and staff are dedicated to the success
of its students,
who are the university's greatest assets and it's true ambassadors.
We must ensure that our programmes deliver
the 'Staffordshire' graduate.
We therefore need to be clear that obtaining a degree from this university
is a valuable investment in an individual's personal development and
career prospects.
This year, our aim is to draw your attention
to the cutting edge work of the university
around science and technology.
Over recent months, those of you who pass along Leek Road will have
seen this building
going up in rather a spectacular way.
It's the University's new Science and Technology Centre.
It will enable us to attract new business investment, create a real buzz
which will in turn, we think, inspire the community around us.
The new building, most importantly, will put science and technology centre stage
So, as they say,
prepare to be impressed.
We are a dynamic and successful business.
We are looking for opportunities
here and abroad to spread the power of Staffordshire awards and transforming lives.
We've got a fantastic opportunity to make make education
very much a landmark for the city and the region.
We employ about 1,700 people
and we support the learning of more than 29,000 students.
The University of Staffordshire
has the will to win
and the vision to succeed.
Thank you very much for the privilege.