Our new Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Education and Student, Professor Kate O'Riordan wrote to all taught students earlier today. You can read the full message below: 

Hello,

I am thrilled to be your new Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Education and Students). My name is Kate O'Riordan, I’m a Professor of Digital Culture, and I know Sussex very well, having been a student here myself, and having returned to the University and worked here for over 20 years, most recently as the Dean of the School of Media, Arts and Humanities.

During my time here, I have worked with and supported thousands of students and seen graduates go on to make their mark in their chosen industries and communities. I am looking forward to meeting many more of you, including those of you who are living or studying in Falmer over the summer – especially as I know campus is home for some of you. For those of you returning to Sussex for a new academic year, I hope we get the chance to meet as you settle in for the autumn term.

I recognise that for some of you it has not been an easy time to be a student. You may have faced, or be facing, challenges relating to national industrial action or the cost of living situation. I want to assure you that I will do my best to support you and your fellow students through challenging times and to listen to you. Please do share your views and suggestions for changes you’d like to see, to help me ensure that your experience as a Sussex student is the best it can possibly be.

I also want to hear about your successes and what you love about Sussex, so I can share them and celebrate with you all – whether it’s an act of kindness that made a real difference to you, or an achievement, big or small. It’s important to remember that we can all make a positive difference for each other and for ourselves.

I really appreciate our University community’s incredible diversity, made up of different people, perspectives, backgrounds and ideas. In my role I will work alongside Professor David Ruebain, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Culture, Equality and Inclusion) on our Inclusive Sussex vision, to reduce inequalities and celebrate diversity. Something I am really looking forward to is taking part in the University’s walking party at the Pride Community Parade this weekend – more on that below.

I want to wish good luck to all of you who have resits coming up. Please see the information below to support you over the next few weeks.

I'd also like to take this opportunity to thank my predecessor in this role, Professor Kelly Coate, for her fantastic work, and to wish her all the best at Richmond American University in London.

Please read on for your regular update, including:

• Information for students taking resits (7-19 August)
• Marking and assessment boycott information
• Celebrating diversity and inclusivity at Brighton and Hove Pride Parade 2023
• Meet the Turner Prize shortlist: Barbara Walker

Information for students taking resits (7-19 August)

The resit assessment period for all modules starts next Monday 7 August and runs until Saturday 19 August. You can visit the Student Hub for information on resitting an assessment and related links. Any questions should be directed to your School office in the first instance.

On the Skills Hub you’ll find resources to help you prepare for your resits, including effective revision and time management strategies. If you’re on campus and looking for a place to study, check the Student Hub for options.

In the unlikely event that you experience any sudden, temporary and unforeseen circumstance that directly impacts your academic performance, please review our Exceptional Circumstances webpages. There are important deadlines that must be observed should you need to submit an application for consideration.

Marking and assessment boycott information

We are continuing to update the industrial action page on the Student Hub when there is new information. Please check this page to stay up to date and see answers to frequently-asked questions about the impact of the marking and assessment boycott. You can also find information there on how to submit a complaint if you have been impacted by the industrial action.

If you have concerns and need extra guidance or support, the University has services available that provide advice on a range of subjects. You can access these services via the Student Centre.

Celebrating diversity and inclusivity at Brighton Pride Parade 2023

The University of Sussex is once again a proud partner of Brighton & Hove Pride, the UK’s biggest Pride event. I’ll be joining the University’s walking party at the Pride Community Parade this Saturday 5 August, with 100 colleagues, students and alumni. If you’re around, please come and say hi!

Meet the Turner Prize shortlist: Barbara Walker

As Education Partner for the Turner Prize 2023, the world’s leading prize for contemporary art, we have been taking a deep dive into the artist shortlist announced in April of this year.

This week we are shining a spotlight on Barbara Walker, who was nominated for her presentation entitled Burden of Proof at Sharjah Biennial 15 – bringing careful attention and visibility to the individuals and families affected by the Windrush Scandal.

Read more about Barbara Walker in our article on the Student Hub.

With best wishes,
  
Kate

Professor Kate O’Riordan, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Education and Students)