Students react to Vice-Chancellor appointment

The news that the University of York have appointed Koen Lamberts as the successor to Professor Brian Cantor as Vice-Chancellor has received an overwhelmingly positive reaction from students.

The Belgian, who will join York at the start of 2014 from Warwick University, has been praised by students and the Student Union alike as a seemingly excellent candidate for the role, who possesses the ability to take York forward.

YUSU President Kallum Taylor led the sentiments, and told Vision: “On the occasions we met it was clear that Koen has a full appreciation of where our University is currently at, what we need to do to progress further, and what we must do to carry on punching above our weight in a pretty turbulent time for universities and students.

“I’m sure students will warmly receive him as our new Vice Chancellor, and I’m looking forward to YUSU working with him, and the wider institution under his stewardship, in creating a Student Experience envied across the sector.”

Students seemed pleased with the appointment, but one important fact emphasised was the minor impact that the outgoing Vice-Chancellor has had. This apathy towards the role is an issue that Professor Lamberts may well be looking to address, if he seeks to win over the student body and prove himself to be a successful Vice-Chancellor.

The Student Reaction

Rachael Venables – Third year History and English Literature student and Head of News at URY:
“He certainly seems like he has the experience for the job, both as an academic and in his position at Warwick. I suppose at this point we have to hope that the University and YUSU have chosen well, and wait and see what he delivers when he comes to the post in January. I’m looking forward to seeing what he brings to York, and from a personal point of view hope he’s much more open with the student media and body as a whole!”

Chris Butterworth – Second year Economics student:
“The appointment of Koen marks an exciting period for York; he has come in at a great time to stamp his mark on the University (due to Heslington East, tuition fees etc), has a great background and looks like he will do a good job in improving York’s reputation and quality. However I can’t say I’m hugely excited as I don’t know of any way in which I’ve been directly affected by the previous vice-chancellor.”

Alex McDonald – Second year Chemistry student:
“It’s good to see that the University has gone for someone with experience at this level, and can hopefully secure York’s status as one of the UK’s top Universities. However, this won’t guarantee success and it is imperative that he will listen to the student body and what the students want more so than the previous administration. This already looks promising following his picture without a tie and open collar. I like that look. However I do feel like whoever has been appointed will not make a difference to me during my time at the University and any appointment made now will take a good few years to have any effect.”

Bradley Copper – First Year English Student:
“Koen sees like an experienced and credible candidate, so at first glance it seems like the University has made a good choice. Hopefully he’ll live up to his billing and make a difference for all of us students over the next few years.”

Katie Molloy – Third year Music student:
“Although I’m slightly indifferent to the appointment of a new vice chancellor, Lamberts’ reputation and track record at the University of Warwick definitely shows dedication and enthusiasm, so he seems like a good choice to me.”

Bertie Baker-Smith – Third year Economics student:
“He seems like a good man for the job, but to be honest I’m indifferent as they don’t seem to do anything that benefits students.”

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