UCAS head gets lecture series underway

The woman in charge of the body that processes UK university admissions kicked off the first in a series of public lectures at the University of Wolverhampton.

Mary Curnock Cook OBE, chief executive of UCAS, was the first speaker for the inaugural Leading Lights Lectures.

The series features some of the University’s honorary graduates, who come from a range of diverse sectors.

In 2002 Mary was made an honorary fellow by the University of Wolverhampton.

At Tuesday night’s event, held at the University’s city campus, she discussed the admissions policy and access into higher education and the new era of competition for students.

Professor Geoff Layer, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Wolverhampton, said: “We have a high calibre of speakers lined up and it was great to start the series with Mary Curnock Cook- particularly as what she talked about is our core business.

“I think it’s hugely important that we engage with our honorary graduates and utilise their vast experience and skills to benefit our students, staff and the wider community.

“I hope Leading Lights will become a firm fixture in the University’s calendar in years to come.”

Four more lectures are due to take place as part of the series between May and September.

These will be:

• Tom Ilube, entrepreneur and founder of Internet bank Egg- Attack of the Cybermen: The Rising Threat of Unchecked Computer Crime on May 17th 2012
• Jean Irvine, Commissioner with Equality and Human Rights Commission- Sex and Power: The Impact of Glass Ceilings on Women in the Workplace on June 14th 2012
• Mark Palmer, marketing consultant and non-executive director with Green and Black’s- The Global Power of Marketing to Drive Changes in Behaviour and Buying Habits on September 25th 2012

All lectures take place at either the University’s city campus or Wolverhampton Science Park. Admission is free but places are limited. All attendees must book their place by visiting www.wlv.ac.uk/leadinglights where full details are available.

ENDS

Picture Caption: UCAS chief executive Mary Curnock Cook in conversation with Professor Kit Field, Dean of the School of Education Futures at the University of Wolverhampton.

For more information or to arrange to attend please James Allen in the Media Relations Office on 01902 322003.