First female principal is appointed for Sabhal Mòr Ostaig

DR GILLIAN ROTHACH has been named as the new principal of Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, making her the first female to hold the post.

Dr Rothach is currently deputy director of studies and head of research at the college, and it was under her direction that the institution achieved success in its submission to the Research Excellence Framework, with many areas of its research being classed as world-leading.

‘We are delighted to offer this important role to Gillian,’ said Angus MacLeod, chairman of the board of directors.

‘We were seeking in a new principal someone with vision, enthusiasm and a wealth of knowledge, and we have recognised all of these qualities in Gillian. Her genuine commitment to the college and to Gaelic means that she will be able to continue the excellent work of her predecessors.’

Fluent in Gaelic and Scots, Dr Rothach, who grew up in the north-east, has always had an empathy with and interest in language and its impact on culture and society. She has a master’s degree in Celtic studies and a PhD in Scottish ethnology and social anthropology, equipping her with a suitable breadth of knowledge to lead the National Centre for Gaelic language and culture.

‘It was through Sir Iain Noble that I first came to the Isle of Skye,’ said Dr Rothach. ‘I was totally in awe of this visionary man and all the ambition he had for Gaelic. That is why we have such a strong, capable and committed team at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig. We are all committed to that same aim - of strengthening Gaelic in every area and place. I have total respect for the value of the history and culture of the Gaels. I view it as a real honour to have been involved in Gaelic language development since 1984.’

Dr Rothach lives in Skye with her two children, who are also fluent Gaelic speakers. She will begin in post mid-August 2018.