Aberystwyth University’s Vice-Chancellor declares retirement

The Vice-Chancellor of Aberystwyth University has announced her decision to retire at the end of the year.

Professor Elizabeth Treasure will leave the University earlier than planned following ongoing medical treatment.

Professor Treasure was appointed Vice-Chancellor at Aberystwyth in 2017. Since then, she has led on academic developments such as nursing education at the University for the first time, and the opening of Wales’ only School of Veterinary Science.

While implementing plans to ensure financial sustainability, Professor Treasure also led projects to revamp some of the institution’s iconic buildings such as Neuadd Pantycelyn halls of residence, and the ongoing Old College project which is breathing new life into the University’s original building on Aberystwyth’s promenade.

Professor Treasure had previously indicated that she would step down as Vice-Chancellor in September 2024.

In a message to the University’s staff Professor Elizabeth Treasure said: “As you know, I had intended to retire as your Vice-Chancellor in 2024. However, I have decided to reassess my plans following recent and continuing medical treatment.

“This is a decision over which I have agonised over recent months as I cannot overstate how much I love working with you all. However, given that I am drawing close to my intended retirement date, I concluded that stepping down a little earlier than intended to focus on my health is the right way to go.

“I have therefore asked the Chair of the University Council, Dr Emyr Roberts, to begin the task of recruiting our next Vice-Chancellor, and I will retire at the end of this calendar year.”

Aberystwyth University Council Chair, Dr Emyr Roberts said: “While disappointed that Elizabeth will leave the University earlier than expected, I greatly appreciate her reasons for doing so. Through her leadership, Elizabeth has made an outstanding contribution to this institution since her arrival in 2017 and has transformed the University in so many ways while retaining Aberystwyth’s uniqueness. We have been very fortunate to have a Vice-Chancellor of her abilities, and I know that everyone at the University and beyond will be wishing her well. I look forward to having the opportunity to thank Elizabeth fully before she retires at the end of the year.

“The University Council will now proceed to recruit a new Vice-Chancellor to build on the excellent progress made during Elizabeth’s tenure, and on our global reputation for excellence in both teaching and research.”