Public Affairs Standing Committee - Reports

The Public Affairs Standing Committee (PASC) held the last of its meetings for the 2024-25 academic session on Monday, 26 May. The guest speaker at the meeting was Chris Cox, Vice-Principal Philanthropy and Executive Director of Development and Alumni (D & A).

The aim of the meeting was to discuss collaboration between D & A and the PASC, in order to align General Council activities with those of D & A, support mutual goals effectively and avoid duplication of effort.

Chris introduced his talk by outlining the challenges faced by the University as well as its achievements, and the importance of keeping alumni informed and engaged. His presentation covered a range of topics including the University finances, Freedom of Expression, Artificial Intelligence in Education, and the wider political climate and impact on higher education. The importance of strategies to engage the wider community in public understanding of the valuable role of universities; promoting attendance at the General Council Half-Yearly meetings, particularly to hear the presentation from the Principal at the February meeting covering the University's Annual Report; and effective communication strategies to engage various stakeholders, including alumni, and encourage open and respectful dialogue. Chris reported that the University's report on its Race Review will be published in the next few months and potential media coverage of the publication was discussed. The Convener thanked Chris for his comprehensive presentation and the constructive discussion that followed.

The Convener updated the Committee on the filming of the video covering the work of the Business Committee and its Standing Committees. In addition, she provided her personal feedback on the excellent event held at the Usher Institute in May which was very well attended. Feedback will be requested from participants in the form of a short survey.

The remainder of the meeting focused on reviewing the budget and discussing the draft Workplan for the 2025-26 session. Future activities will potentially include the production of Billet; a possible third General Council video covering the Prince Philip scholarship fund; the Half-Yearly statutory meetings in February and June 2026; further Showcasing events; the 'in Conversation' event planned for October featuring two former politicians and the Rector; and the Christmas Reception. 

The next meeting of PASC will be arranged for the autumn. 

Professor Alice Brown

Convener

PASC