FOREWORD

Welcome to the University of York’s 2035 Strategy.

I am delighted at a time of so much change and uncertainty, this refresh of our Strategy has created a space for our community to reflect, and respond with compassion, energy and ambition. In doing so, we proudly reaffirm our commitment to be a University for Public Good.

York is a life-changing and life-enhancing place. I know this from first-hand experience. It shaped my life just as it has shaped thousands of others. York gave me the chance to benefit from higher education at a time when many other institutions would not, and it still inspires me every time I see the spark of enthusiasm in today’s students and staff.

Yet no university has a given right to exist. The essence of effective learning is to adapt our understanding and approach as new information emerges. So, too, for universities there is an essential need to evolve as the context shifts. York has been on that journey in recent years, and in this Strategy we emphasise what comes next. We retain our absolute focus on world-class teaching and research; sharpen our emphasis on place (highlighting both our critical local and regional role, and our expanding global engagement); we make financial resilience integral to our ongoing positive impact; and we put people and community at the heart of our purpose.

We see this Strategy as the start of our next chapter. It guides us to build on York’s many strengths whilst embracing the opportunities and addressing the risks ahead. The University’s Governing Body is grateful for all the effort, expertise and enthusiasm necessary to bring this Strategy to life. We look forward to supporting that work and the ongoing difference it makes.