The new Chief Executive of universities representative group GuildHE said she was impressed by the University of Worcester’s approach to accessibility and community relations during a recent visit.
Dr Brooke Storer-Church with the University's Vice Chancellor, Professor David Green CBE DL
Worcester was the first GuildHE member institution visited by Dr Brooke Storer-Church since taking up her role as CEO six weeks ago.
She was taken on a full tour of the University, including The Hive, City Campus, Art House, Arena and the Elizabeth Garrett Anderson building for health and medical education, as well as taking time to meet with senior leaders.
“The Hive really stands out as a fantastic example of what universities can do to support communities and support growth,” she said. “The Art House also really impressed me in showcasing how universities and local organisations can work together, helping students to access working artists, enriching their experience and helping them to see a pathway for the future.”
Dr Storer-Church added: “The level of accessibility across the University’s campuses is wonderful to see, particularly the thought that went into the Arena.”
Dr Storer-Church joined GuildHE having held senior posts at the Office for Students, the former Higher Education Funding Council for England and, most recently, at Birmingham City University where she was Director of Strategic Academic Engagement.
She said she hoped to work closely with the new Government to highlight the positive role of universities in society.
“Higher education is a public good,” she said. “It is not only for the benefit of individuals; it’s for the benefit of all. We all need doctors, nurses, teachers, engineers, surveyors. Institutions like our members, including Worcester, do so much good for their communities.”
She added: “I will be saying to Government – let us help you. There are some big challenges ahead of us and the higher education sector can really help.”