Director takes over university partnership

THE Combined Universities In Cornwall (CUC) has appointed a director who will play a key role in leading the way in the organisation's future.

Dr Sue Brownlow will help deliver the vision of world class higher education in Cornwall set by the six universities and colleges that make up the CUC partnership.

"I am thrilled to be joining the CUC at such an exciting time for Cornwall and for the partnership," she said.

"By working together, the CUC partners have succeeded in creating an outstanding higher education infrastructure for Cornwall in an incredibly short time.

"We now have a golden opportunity to put Cornwall on the map in terms of higher education excellence and the great benefits it brings to individuals and businesses.

"It is a challenging mission, but it is one I am delighted to be part of."

Dr Brownlow was previously with the South West Regional Development Agency, where she led on relations with higher education institutions in Cornwall.

Before that, she had held senior roles in the private sector and enjoyed research, consultancy and training work with universities and colleges across the country. She moved to Cornwall seven years ago.

Professor Alan Livingston, chair of the CUC executive group, said: "I am very pleased that we have been able to attract a new director with Dr Brownlow's impressive track record and with her tremendous passion and commitment.

"I am sure that all the partner universities and colleges will join me in welcoming her and in offering our full support as she takes up this important role."

Dr Brownlow's appointment has also been welcomed by Carleen Kelemen, director fo the Convergence Partnership Office for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

"We have already been working closely with Dr Brownlow in her role delivering ERDF (European Regional Development Fund) Convergence investment at the South West RDA," she said.

"We look forward to continuing a close working relationship as we support business growth via the CUC, its facilities, knowledge and graduates."

*CUC is a partnership of universities and colleges serving Cornwall.

There are now more than 6,000 people studying for university-level qualifications in Cornwall and several hundred jobs have already been created as a direct result of CUC.

The long-term benefits of CUC include a predicted 4,800 jobs by 2025 and the initiative's value to Cornwall over the same period is expected to reach £274 million.