Education / Principal appointed to lead merged college
A PRINCIPAL has now been appointed to lead a new merged college for Shetland.
Professor Jane Lewis has been selected for the role, which attracted more than twenty applicants from the UK and overseas.
Lewis is currently professor of marine phycology at the University of Westminster in the school of life sciences.
She will start her job on 1 October as she oversees the merger of Shetland College, the NAFC Marine Centre and Train Shetland.
Lewis said she is keen to strengthen Shetland’s activities in research, innovation, skills development and enterprise, and to ensure there are learning opportunities and pathways for everyone.
“The new college will be an inspirational hub of innovation and learning designed to meet the needs of the people of Shetland,” she said.
Ruth Campbell, project manager for the Shetland College merger, added: “Shaping a new organisation for the benefit of everyone in Shetland will require strong leadership and a clear vision, so the shadow board for the project is delighted to be welcoming Jane at this stage”.
Lewis’ previous research has focused on understanding harmful algal blooms. She also teaches various environmentally related subjects.
She was previously pro-vice chancellor and dean of the faculty of science and technology at Westminster supporting a team delivering a broad spectrum of courses including undergraduate, post-graduate study, professional and short courses.
Lewis said her interest in moving to Shetland began through her marine research career, for which she has spent extensive time working in Scotland.
Interim joint principal for Shetland College and NAFC Marine Centre Willie Shannon will revert to his substantive post of director of the fisheries college.
The new college, which will form part of the UHI network, will be established early in 2020. Until this time, Lewis will be leading the current Shetland College to prepare for the merger.
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 600 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.