University announces its new chancellor

Lord Cullen to step down and be replaced by Prof Alice Brown

Abertay University has announced its chancellor, Lord Cullen of Whitekirk – formerly Scotland’s most senior judge – will step down from the role.

Lord Cullen will be replaced by Professor Alice Brown following this summer’s graduation ceremonies.

After 10 years of service to Abertay, the distinguished lawyer and former senior member of the Scottish Judiciary will preside over his final graduation ceremonies at the Caird Hall on July 4.

In addition to officiating at graduation ceremonies, he recently, through a generous personal donation, established the Chancellor’s Fund, an initiative to support the university’s PhD and research Masters students.

Professor Nigel Seaton, Abertay university principal and vicechancellor, said: “Lord Cullen has been an outstanding figurehead for the university in his 10 years as chancellor, acting as a source of inspiration, guidance and wisdom to our students, alumni and staff.”

Prof Brown was a member of the committee on Standards in Public Life (Nolan Committee), advised on procedural aspects of setting up the Scottish Parliament, was Scotland’s first Public Services Ombudsman and was a member of the Administrative Justice and Tribunals Council from 2008 to 2012.

Notably, Professor Brown was also the first female General Secretary of the Royal Society of Edinburgh.

Prof Seaton said: “I am very pleased indeed that Alice Brown will be joining us as chancellor of Abertay University.”

Prof Brown said: “I am delighted and extremely honoured to succeed Lord Cullen as chancellor of Abertay University.

“I very much look forward to following in his footsteps and working with the university and its students, alumni and staff in the years ahead.”

Picture: Gary Doak. Professor Alice Brown was Scotland’s first Public Services Ombudsman.