Dean Of Students Appointment
The University of Hertfordshire is pleased to announce the appointment of Ross Renton as the new Dean of Students from 1 September 2011.
Ross joined the University in November 2004 as a member of the faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies. In his current role as head of department, he has responsibility for developing and delivering the University's UK student recruitment, educational engagement, mentoring and Widening Participation strategy.
He represents the University at a national level and has been invited to advise and input to a number of key national bodies and companies, including: UCAS, the Department for Education (DfE) (Qualifications and Progression Group), the Specialist Schools and Academies Trust (SSAT) and Pearson UK.
Ross is currently the Deputy Chair of Aimhigher (Hertfordshire) and has implemented a number of innovative initiatives to increase participation across the region. He has also helped to set up a number of School Trusts and Academies, and is currently working to establish a new School and University Technical College.
In welcoming the new Dean of Students, Philip Waters, Secretary and Registrar at the University of Hertfordshire, said: “I am delighted that Ross Renton has been appointed the new Dean of Students. He has made a significant contribution to the University over the years and I am confident he will build on the excellent reputation the University has in providing pastoral care and in preparing students for their future.”
Ross has previous experience in both the commercial and charity sectors as Non-Executive Director of Endsleigh Insurance Services Ltd, Director of Student Volunteering Scotland, Chair/Director of NUS Services Ltd as well as holding senior posts within the National Union of Students (NUS).
His research interest is in education policy and he has delivered papers on this work nationally and internationally. Ross is a Fellow of the Royal Society for Arts (RSA) and a member of the Institute of Fiscal Studies.
Ross said of his new role: “It has never been more important for students to get a first-class experience at University. I want students to contribute to our communities, both on and off campus. In my new role as Dean of Students I will be ambitious for our students, challenging them to excel and ensuring they make the most of all aspects of their time at University”
The outgoing Dean of Students, David Ball retires in September 2011 after 30 successful years at the University of Hertfordshire.