Mark Williams MP, the Member of Parliament for Ceredigion, officially launched Universities Week at Aberystwyth University today, Monday 14th June 2010.
Organised by Universities UK, the ‘What’s the Big Idea?’ Universities Week runs from the 14-20 June and provides an opportunity for Universities to highlight achievements to a wide audience.
Mr Williams is an alumnus of the University and is one of twelve Aberystwyth graduates who were elected to parliament at the recent General Election. At the launch, Mr Williams, who studied Politics and graduated in 1987, returned to the flagship International Politics Department on Penglais Campus. During his visit, Mr Williams met with the University’s Vice Chancellor; Julian Smyth, Director of Development and Alumni Relations; the Head of the International Politics Department, Professor Michael Foley; and staff of the International Politics Department.
Commenting on Mr Williams’ visit and the launch of Universities Week, Professor Noel Lloyd, Vice Chancellor of Aberystwyth University said: “It is a privilege to have our local MP, an alumnus of the University, to launch this important week. Universities Week provides us with a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments of the University and those of its students, staff and alumni.”
Mr Williams MP commented: “Universities play a vital role in our society and make a substantial contribution to both local and national economies. I am honoured to be launching Universities Week at Aberystwyth University. As an alumnus and as a Member of Parliament, I have a great appreciation of the value of such an institution and its contribution to developing individuals, communities and our country as a whole.”
Professor Michael Foley, Head of International Politics, said: “We are delighted to have Mr Williams returning to his University, and his old Department, during Universities Week. It is always pleasing to welcome back of our alumni.”
Julian Smyth, Aberystwyth University’s Director of Development an Alumni Relations, said: “In celebrating the contribution made by the University to such a diverse range of activities and achievements, I am particularly delighted that Mark Williams, a distinguished alumnus, is opening Universities Week. Alumni have always played an important part in the development of the University, and this is set to become more and more important as we seek to engage with our former students in areas such as employability, mentoring, student support, collaborative ventures, research partnerships and financial support.”
Aberystwyth University will be marking Universities Week by highlighting the diverse range of work undertaken at the University and invites members of the public to learn more about its activities.
