Today, I have the pleasure of writing to you in my capacity as President of University College Dublin. It is an honour for me to join this great academic institution with a proud tradition of scholarship and contribution to society and I am acutely aware of the enormous contribution you, the alumni of UCD, have made to this reputation.
I have come to UCD from Perth in Western Australia via Durham in the UK. What drew me to UCD was the strong sense of connection this university has within Ireland and internationally. It is my firm belief that universities are a community of students, staff and graduates who hold certain values, who foster creative thinking and who seek to have a particular impact on society. UCD expresses all of these attributes.
Since taking up office in January, I have been struck by the commitment and enthusiasm of students and staff I have met and I am greatly looking forward to engaging with graduates; hearing your views on your University and your aspirations on how we might jointly contribute to ensuring future generations of UCD students receive the best academic and holistic education.
I would like to acknowledge Dr Hugh Brady, my predecessor, under whose leadership UCD achieved great strides to become a highly ranked international institution. The revitalisation of the curriculum through UCD Horizons, the enhancement of the campus, backed by the generous support of private donors, alumni and students, the increase in research output are all characteristics of a world-class university and place UCD in a good position to face the challenges of the next decade.
Over the coming months and years I hope to meet with many of you. I welcome the opportunity to listen and share your thoughts on how together we can have an impact on society – both here in UCD, nationally and globally.
Thank you for continuing to stay in touch with UCD Alumni and I hope that we can help you to stay connected with the friends you made and shared while at university.
AJD
