Adventurer Mark Beaumont named Dundee University Rector
Mark Beaumont, the man who cycled the world and has completed a host of long-distance adventures, has been named the new Rector of the University of Dundee.
Mark Beaumont, the man who cycled the world and has completed a host of long-distance adventures, has been named the new Rector of the University of Dundee.
Mark, who attended school in Dundee, assumes the role of Rector with immediate effect. He was elected unopposed and succeeds the actor Brian Cox, who was elected to the position in 2010 and has served two terms.
“I am absolutely thrilled, and slightly surprised, to be the new Rector of the University of Dundee,” said Mark. “Six years ago I sat in the audience at the Caird Hall as Brian Cox stepped into the role and I remember his words about making a real difference. I commend Brian for his hard work and will do my utmost to continue being a credible voice for the student body.
“I went to high school in Dundee and was delighted to return and receive an honorary degree from the University in 2012. In fact Dundee was the starting point for my first ever adventure at the age of 12, to cycle across Scotland.
“The University of Dundee is also where my sister graduated from, so I am certainly not short of connections and I am very proud of the city and the University’s many successes over the years. I look forward to playing my part in the University of Dundee’s many future triumphs.”
Mark will be formally installed as Rector in a ceremony to be arranged for a later date. The Rector is elected to serve the students' interests, including at the University Court, the governing body of the institution.
Professor Sir Pete Downes, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Dundee, said, “I am delighted to welcome Mark Beaumont into the University community, and I am sure he will be an excellent representative for our students.
“He will have a hard act to follow in Brian Cox, who has displayed hard work, dedication and friendship to the students and to the University in general over his past six years in post. We are all extremely grateful to Brian and hope that he will continue to be involved in the work of the Students’ Association and the University.”