Harper Adams staff praised over university status

Posted 12 December 2012

Harper Adams’ Founding Vice-Chancellor has praised the “massive team effort” of staff, governors and students in helping to secure university status.

Addressing staff at a celebratory event in the university’s Regional Food Academy yesterday, Dr David Llewellyn expressed his gratitude to all employees for their help, support and dedication.

“It is down to you that this change has come about. Thank you for all your hard work,” he said.

“I’m delighted that we have been awarded university title before Christmas because what better Christmas present could we have.”

He also praised the students who turned out earlier in the day to celebrate the news, which was announced on Monday by the Privy Council, and to snap up limited edition ‘Harper Adams University’ t-shirts.

“They turned out in force and got the new university off to a great start,” he said.

Dr Llewellyn then proceeded to raise a toast to ‘Harper Adams University’ before cutting a cake specially made by the University’s catering department to mark the occasion.

Roger Mercer, Chairman of Governors, said: “I think it’s fantastic news. I’m delighted for David and the team, and all the staff at Harper Adams.

“I think the award of university title is really significant for everybody, the staff, the students and the university itself, and everybody associated with it.”

Dr Abigail Hind, Academic Registrar, said: “As someone who has been working at Harper Adams for over 20 years, I have seen fantastic changes, continued improvement and intelligent and loyal students supported by equally hardworking and professional staff. It is a fantastic achievement for the students and staff.”

Paul Moran, Estates and Facilities Manager, said: “I think that we have been a university without the name for a long time. This is recognition of everything we already are.”

Dr Victoria Talbot, Laboratory Manager, said: “Today’s event is wonderful and it is a fantastic celebration to mark being a university. It is a fantastic achievement and I am really proud of the institution I work for.”

Terry Pickthall, Placement Manager for Agriculture, said: “I’m delighted to be part of Harper Adams during this monumental change. I think it underpins what we do and the level at which we do it.”

David Nuttall, Catering Manager, said: “I’m glad it has finally come to fruition. It is a great celebration of what Harper does. It’s been a long time waiting and is a fantastic Christmas present.”