A University for Public Good - York University

On January 16^th we were delighted and honoured to receive, as our guest, Professor Charlie Jeffery, Vice-Chancellor of the University of York. With formalities quickly dropped, Charlie, rather than Professor Jeffery, spoke to us about the past history, current ethos and future prospects of his university, which was founded in 1963, when its first Vice Chancellor, Baron (John) James of Rusholme, made it clear from the outset that things would be different here from other ‘new’ universities. The University of York, Charlie explained, was founded as part of the 1960s expansion of the sector and would promote ‘Scientific studies which tend … to the amelioration of human life and conditions’, would seek to expand opportunity for people from all walks of life and would envisage its students as citizens of the world.

The framework was set, then, in 1963 for a University existing for public good: Charlie emphasised that the underlying and overriding ethos of the University has not changed, despite significant economic difficulties and evolving expectations. The financial problems ridden out by the University in the 1970s seemed pale compared to the situation now, when thousands of university jobs nationally have been cut and where two universities have failed completely. But Charlie insisted that the values and principles established by Lord James must be upheld and, indeeed, continue to be upheld.

In order to persist in its mission to progress public good, Charlie told us that the University has entered into partnerships with local businesses and institutions which support the development of life-enhancing scientific studies. To maintain and build on the principle of expanded access, the University has set up local learning centres in Bridlington, Hull and Grimsby, where young people are inspired to achieve; it has also, with help from local companies, set up ‘The Place’, a community learning centre in Acomb, running a large range of activities for all ages and aimed at bringing forward abilities in English and Maths, as well as creative and communication skills. Lord James’ cosmopolitan aspirations are also being realised: with the national decline in overseas student enrolments, the University of York is maintaining its international ethos by opening a campus in Mumbai. Charlie was very pleased to inform us that this new campus replicates the two campuses in Heslington by being centred on a lake!

Charlie’s presentation was characterised by a strong spirit of hope, a practical and determined orientation to the future and an emphasis on strong, ethical, social values: a perfect alignment, in this Rotary International Vocational month, with our own principles. Thank you Charlie!

President Paul Roberts