Principal of the University of St Andrews
The Principal of the University of St Andrews serves as the Chief Executive of the institution. They are responsible for the overall running of the university, presiding over the supreme acting body of the university known as the academic senate and conferring degrees in the absence of the Chancellor. The Principal is elected by the University Court. Beginning in 1859 after the Universities (Scotland) Act 1858, it has been conventional for one person to hold both the titles of Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University.[1]
The position is currently vacant; until the position is filled, the University will be run jointly by the Master of the United College and the Quaestor.[1] On 22 February 2016, Sally Mapstone was announced as the next Principal and will assume her position in September 2016.[2]
History
The Principal's Office of the University of St Andrews dates in effect from 1858. Until the mid 1700s the University comprised three colleges and the Provosts of St Salvator's College and Principals of St Leonard's College and St Mary's College were responsible for the oversight of their own institutions.[3]
List of Principals and Vice-Chancellors
- 1859 Sir David Brewster
- 1859-1886 Reverend John Tulloch
- 1886-1915 Sir James Donaldson
- 1915-1920 Sir John Herkless
- 1921-1952 Sir James Irvine
- 1953-1966 Sir Thomas Malcolm Knox
- 1966-1986 Professor John Steven Watson
- 1986-1999 Professor Struther Arnott
- 2001-2008 Dr Brian Lang
- 2009-2015 Professor Louise Richardson
- 2016- Professor Sally Mapstone
See also
- Governance of the University of St Andrews
- Chancellor of the University of St Andrews
- Rector of the University of St Andrews
References
- ^ a b "University of St Andrews: The Principal and Vice-Chancellor". University of St Andrews.
- ^ "New Principal of St Andrews". University of St Andrews Press Office. St Andrews, UK. 22 February 2015. Retrieved 22 February 2016.
- ^ "History of the Principal's Office". University of St Andrews.