23/04/2023
Can’t quite believe it, but I leave Staffordshire University on Friday (28th April), so I’d better start to say my thank yous and goodbyes. It hasn’t been an easy decision to make but it’s time to fully start living my new life in the South West.
I started at the University in 1992 as a student and became employed upon graduation, so that’s 31 years - not a bad innings! I’ve loved being part of BA photography at Staffs. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the passion and mentoring offered by a few special people; Mike Berry, my course leader - you couldn’t have met a kinder man who just loved photography, Catherine Fehily who initiated IRIS (International Centre for Women in Photography) which gave me the opportunity to work as a research associate, working on an amazing variety of international editorial and curatorial projects and David Noble who encouraged me to join the academic BA photography teaching team, his knowledge and passion totally inspiring. I have also been incredibly lucky to work with a fabulous team of immediate colleagues Becky, Rick and Paul who have kept me sane (just about!) supported of course by the expertise of the technical teams.
Then there are the students; you make me so proud, seeing your confidence and skill base develop over the three years and then watching your professional careers take off is a joy. It has been a real privilege to have played, even a very small part in that journey. But the best part of working at Staffordshire University is meeting my husband of 22 years who I met on a work placement as a student and then again when he was employed by the University! I can’t wait to start our next new chapter where a large orange campervan and cold-water swimming feature highly!!
I think I have had the best years of university education in a medium I still adore, so whilst sad to leave - the things that matter will stay with me. Thank you all - if I don’t catch you this week - I will be back for the degree show opening night. Kate