CHAIRMAN'S INTRODUCTION

In a year of continued progress, the University has been increasingly aware of changes in the environment in which it works and in the criteria by which it is judged. The conduct and achievements of all UK universities receive considerable attention from Government bodies, higher education organisations, the media and the general public. We at Loughborough, as our Strategic Plan for 2002-07 shows, continue to set stretching goals and examine our performance closely.

This year’s Annual Report extends this approach of self-examination, recognising the University’s responsibilities towards all those who have an interest in it. It seeks to describe the past year’s work in terms of the significance that it has to our various stakeholders: our fruitful research partnerships and flourishing commercialisation activities, our students’ achievements, and our growing links in the community. It acknowledges the contributions of our friends and supporters, and expresses gratitude to all those within the University who make our achievement possible.

Indeed much has been accomplished this year. In the Performance Indicators published by the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE), Loughborough was shown to offer the best value for money research in the UK. The University enjoys a well-earned reputation for the relevance of its research. Much of it is directed towards assisting the needs of UK business and industry; they expect ‘value for money’ in investing with the University, and Loughborough is number one at providing it. The Council of the University gives strong weight to the goal of achieving international excellence in research in all departments. Good progress is being made towards this goal although continuing dedication is needed if we are to succeed fully in the face of increasing general standards.

Similarly, Loughborough was revealed to be the most efficient technology transfer operator in the UK, in the first study of its kind to provide benchmarks for commercialisation activities. The University has a long tradition of fruitful and multi-faceted industrial collaboration. It excels in building strong relationships with both multinationals and small to medium sized local businesses, and enjoys an enviable track record for entrepreneurship. The development this year of the Division of Business Partnerships, Innovation and Knowledge Transfer has brought together all of Loughborough’s business-focused activities, paving the way for the University to become even stronger in wealth creation in the region.

Alongside this constructive influence, however, the University must remain mindful of the totality of its effect on the community. With rising student numbers – Loughborough has this year enjoyed particular growth in postgraduate numbers and a significant increase in international students – and over 3,000 staff, the University undoubtedly has a significant impact on the town. Through improved dialogue and increased partnerships, campus events, fundraising and voluntary work, we must work to ensure that the University has a harmonious relationship with the local community and is seen to be bringing it real benefits.

At the heart of the University community are our students, and we are strong at Loughborough in areas that matter to them. We have top scores in teaching quality assessments, strong research, high placings in national league tables, outstanding facilities and excellent graduate employment prospects, with Loughborough consistently ranked among the graduate recruiters’ favourite institutions. Ensuring that all students are offered the opportunity to achieve their full potential remains a top priority, not least in the context of the eventual outcome of the current debate on fees, and at Loughborough our students succeed.

Staff achievements have been notable too: Alexei Abrikosov, a Leverhulme Visiting Professor in the Department of Physics, was a joint recipient of the 2003 Nobel Prize in Physics, and Vice Chancellor Professor David Wallace’s contribution to science was recognised with the award of Honorary Doctor of Science from the University of Edinburgh. Just two of the many highlights.

Loughborough is a remarkable institution, and it is the ‘added value’ that makes it excel. At the heart of our ethos lies an indefinable element, which ensures that Loughborough is much more than just a seat of learning. First class teaching is influenced by pertinent research, which is also vital for establishing successful links with business and industry. Our truly interdisciplinary approach, stretching across all departments and every activity, when coupled with the ‘Loughborough factor’, makes for a winning combination.

I would like to conclude this introduction by expressing my sincere thanks and heartfelt appreciation to Sir Denis Rooke, who this year stepped down as University Chancellor. Sir Denis held the post for almost 14 years, and brought the greatest distinction and support to the University. I also extend a very warm welcome to his successor, Sir John Jennings, who was installed as the University’s fourth Chancellor in July. I am confident that the University will continue to flourish during his term of office.

Sir Bryan Carsberg
Chairman of Council and
Senior Pro-Chancellor