York St John University Vice Chancellor announces retirement

The Vice Chancellor of York St John University, Professor David Fleming, has announced his intention to retire from the University and Higher Education altogether at the end of September 2015. Professor Fleming, who joined the University in 2010, has for some time been managing a chronic kidney illness and on the advice of his consultant is leaving to focus on his health.

Professor Fleming has made the announcement now to give the University’s Board the time it needs to identify the next Vice Chancellor.

Under his tenure York St John has undergone a remarkable transformation. Growth in student enrolments has been among the best in the Higher Education sector, including considerable success in attracting students from outside York and the wider region. By establishing financial strength and stability the University has been able to invest heavily in its campus, which in turn has contributed to unprecedented improvements in the student experience. Student achievement and retention have also seen significant improvements, with York St John now rated among the Top 10 universities in the country for student retention.

Professor Fleming said, “Since I joined the University in 2010 I have been privileged to work with a high-achieving community comprising talented and committed students and staff. During this period the University has grown and developed a great deal and I am enormously proud of everything that has been achieved. In the next 12 months I will continue to lead the University with the drive and commitment which it demands. I am excited about what we can achieve and I am sure York St John will continue to be one of the most innovative, stimulating and successful universities in the country.”

Ann Green CBE, Chairman of the University’s Board, was keen to recognise Professor Fleming’s contribution to the University, “The University that David will leave in 12 months is much-changed from the one that he joined. My colleagues on the Board, past and present, are immensely appreciative of David’s leadership and insight, as well as for the ambitious developments which he and his team have overseen so successfully. We look forward with great optimism but we, along with many others, will be extremely sorry to see him go.”

The Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu, who is also Chancellor of York St John University, added, “[Professor Fleming is] an inspiration to many and a good friend to have around. He has built up York St John to a very high standard and [it is] a place many call home. He has achieved a great deal with his leadership and strong sense of humanity.”