Dear colleagues,
As we approach the end of academic year 2021-2022, I would like to thank you once again for your hard work and sacrifice over the past nine months. Back in October, when none of us had ever even heard of Omicron (yes, it’s true!), we were already fatigued by 18 months of the pandemic. We were hoping that we could somehow get through this academic year while delivering the outstanding teaching, research and public engagement to which the Social Science Division is accustomed. I have little doubt that we have achieved this, and then some. This is all thanks to you.
Many people worked long hours, juggling family and childcare responsibilities, while interrupted by outbreaks of COVID in their households and schools. It has not been easy for your partners and family members, so please extend the gratitude of the Division to your loved ones as well. I hope that in the summer months you will all be able spend some quality time together and enjoy the return to normalcy.
In this newsletter, I am delighted to announce the winners of the Social Sciences Division Teaching Excellence awards and Teaching Development and Enhancement Project Awards. It is wonderful to see some of the outstanding contributions from our colleagues recognised, a huge congratulations to everyone. In addition, we also bring exciting news of the UKRI Future Leaders Fellowships Awards and the new Social Science Innovation Fellows. I also want to draw your attention to an important message outlining the steps you can take should you experience any form of bullying or harassment. This behaviour is not tolerated by the University and it is vital that everyone feels supported and able to share their concerns.
On a final note, I would like to thank the Heads of Departments who are completing their tenure at the end of this academic year. They have led their departments through an exceptional time and I wish them well with their next steps.
This was my first year serving as your Head of Division, and I just wanted to say what a great pleasure it has been to work with you and to learn so much from you. The learning curve has not flattened yet, so if there is anything you would like to suggest about how we could improve the Social Sciences Division, please do not hesitate to get in touch. I wish you all a joyous and restful summer 2022.
With all best wishes,
Tim
Professor Tim Power
Head of the Social Sciences Division
