Transcript: Vice-Chancellor's end of Michaelmas 2024 student message

Dear students,

Welcome to the beautiful Hall of Christ Church College.

As Michaelmas term and 2024 draw to a close, I would like to take a moment to thank each of you for your many contributions, hard work and dedication to Oxford. My role as your Vice-Chancellor continues to be such a privilege, and I have so enjoyed meeting many of you in your colleges, departments, at events, and during our dog walks.

If you’re new to Oxford, I hope you are starting to settle into the rhythm of student life here. Thank you to those who have shared feedback on your application and arrival experience in the first phase of the Student Barometer Survey. Telling us what you think is working well and where we could improve is so important – it ensures we can help you to have the best experience possible. Opportunities for other students to have your say will open in Hilary term. 

Michaelmas marked the launch of my new Sheldonian Series, a termly event for students and staff to witness the vibrant exchange of ideas from across a range of views. This event, in part with our guidance on inclusive student life, reinforces our commitment to ensuring Oxford remains an inclusive and welcoming place for everyone.                          

I speak now for the whole of our community when I say how deeply saddened I am at the tragic deaths of some of our students this year. My heartfelt condolences go to their families and all who knew them and have been affected in any way. I recognise the significant impact this can have on our small, close-knit communities within Oxford. The University’s student welfare and wellbeing services remain available to support every student.

Oxford remains unwaveringly committed to promoting student safety and wellbeing, and to supporting and empowering those who have been reported of misconduct. Please help play your part by developing your understanding of consent, being kind and supportive to those around you, and looking out for one another.

These remain extremely difficult times for many, with events in the Middle East impacting our students and staff in various and difficult ways. Thank you to all who have engaged in dialogue and shared feedback and perspectives to ensure we are supporting our community as best we can.

Webinars have been held this term around the University’s review of ethical investments, in response to staff and student requests in this area. More information is available on our webpages.

I’m delighted that over 10,000 of you are using the new MyOxford student app which has been designed to help you navigate student life and is part of our investment in your digital experience.

As ever, I remain ambitious for what we can continue to achieve together in this incredible institution of Oxford. Just last month, students formed part of our delegation to COP29, and in the New Year, the second cohort of undergraduates will join my Colloquium on Climate, supported once again by a fantastic group of DPhil facilitators.

And I’m looking forward to formally welcoming Lord William Hague of Richmond as our next Chancellor in his admittance ceremony early next year. We are delighted to welcome William and his wife Ffion back to Oxford and I am very much looking forward to working with him in the years to come. He will be terrific.

I hope you have the opportunity to take a well-earned rest to recharge over the winter break and return in the New Year ready for Hilary term and all that 2025 has to offer. I look forward to speaking to you again then, but for now, stay safe and well, and I extend my warmest wishes to you for the upcoming festive period.