A Compelling Case for Universities: Gaudeamus Igitur ‒ So Let us Rejoice

Ahead of his retirement after more than 14 years at the helm of one of the UK’s most successful modern universities, the University of Hertfordshire’s esteemed Vice-Chancellor, Professor Quintin McKellar CBE, invites you to join him for A Compelling Case for Universities: Gaudeamus Igitur ‒ So Let us Rejoice - an inspiring final lecture based on his newly published book of the same title.

Drawing on decades of leadership in higher education, Professor McKellar explores the exciting evolution of universities and their enduring value in society - as sources of enlightenment, pioneers of progress, powerhouses of the economy and as wellsprings of knowledge, innovation, and social progress – alongside dissecting the challenges they continue to face. 

A thought-provoking and entertaining review of today’s university landscape, concluded with an audience-led Q&A, Professor McKellar will challenge assumptions, celebrate academic life, and ultimately invite guests to reflect on the transformative power of higher education in an ever-changing world. 

Professor McKellar’s new book A Compelling Case for Universities: Gaudeamus Igitur ‒ So Let us Rejoice is  available to purchase on the UH Press website.

About Professor Quintin McKellar CBE

Professor Quintin McKellar CBE will be giving his final lecture as Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of the University of Hertfordshire after 14 years in the role, before his retirement later in the summer. Quintin has over 40 years’ experience in higher education and research, and since 2011 has been responsible for the day-to-day running of Herts, the delivery of strategic and operational plans, performance, its internal structure and organisation, and its interface with external bodies and agencies. Beyond his daily responsibilities, he has taken on numerous advisory roles, including serving as a board member of Universities UK and Vice President for England and Northern Ireland from 2021 to 2024. He has played a key role in shaping national policies and strategies through his advisory roles on various committees and boards. In addition to his role at UH, Quintin has been recognised with several prestigious awards and honours. He was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2011 for services to science and is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh, the Royal Society of Biology, and the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons.

To allow us to plan the event effectively, we ask that you please register below by Monday 23 June. Places are limited and expected to go quickly, so we would encourage early registration to avoid disappointment.