Working alongside the Associate Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion, the new appointees will provide strategic leadership and drive forward initiatives that advance equality, diversity and inclusion across all areas of campus life in line with Strategy 2030.  

Dr Susan Clarke, from the School of Nursing and Midwifery, has been appointed Academic Lead for Gender Equality and Director of the Queen’s Gender Initiative (QGI). In this dual role, Dr Clarke will champion gender equality across the University, providing strategic leadership and overseeing the delivery of Athena SWAN institutional activities. She will also lead internal and external initiatives that embed inclusive gender equality practices throughout Queen’s, promoting a culture where all staff and students feel welcomed and supported. 

Reflecting on her new role, Dr Clarke said:  

“It means so much to me to be appointed to this role. I have been involved with Gender Equality Initiatives for over 10 years, both within my School and across the Institution, and I really feel that we have been able to make a difference. In particular, I feel honoured to become the next Director of QGI and to continue the great work of all the amazing women who have come before me. I have big shoes to fill, but I can’t wait to get started". 

Dr Neil Reid from the School of Biological Sciences has been appointed as Academic Lead for LGBTQIA+ and Disability Inclusion. In this role, Dr Reid will provide strategic leadership and support the development and implementation of initiatives to enhance inclusion for LGBTQIA+ and disabled staff and students. He will work closely with stakeholders, staff, and student networks to build a more equitable academic community and represent Queen’s externally in this space. 

Speaking about his appointment, Dr Reid said: 

“I’m delighted to be appointed and excited to build on our strong foundations to make equity and inclusion visible in everything the University does from policy and leadership to everyday practice, ensuring Queen’s is recognised as a sector leader in belonging and accessibility". 

Professor Wei Sha, from the School of Natural and Built Environment, has been appointed Academic Lead for Race and Cultural Inclusion. In this role, Professor Sha will provide leadership in advancing race and cultural inclusion for both staff and students and will provide strategic oversight of the Race Equality Charter work - driving the development, delivery, and visibility of Queen’s initiatives in this area, including submission and implementation of the University’s Race Equality Charter (REC) submission. 

On his appointment, Professor Wei commented: 

“I am super excited about the role of Academic Lead for Race and Cultural Inclusion for Staff and Students. My top responsibility is to lead the implementation of the action plan in the University’s submission for the Advance HE Bronze Racial Equality Charter award.  I hope my role will benefit us all, as the number one issue is the attainment gap between White and Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic and International staff and students, as shown quantitatively in our Bronze award submission. 

“I am really looking forward to working with Schools, Faculties, Directorates, Student Union, and International Societies and groups in the University, to maximise our staff and student achievement regardless of race and cultural background. I also plan to learn from sector best practice, particularly from universities that have already held the award for some time". 

Professor Sir Ian Greer, President and Vice-Chancellor of Queen’s, commented: 

"These appointments reflect our commitment to embed equality, diversity and inclusion across every aspect of university life, and I am delighted that Susan, Neil and Wei will take up these important roles at Queen's. Their knowledge and experience will help ensure that all staff and students continue to thrive in a supportive and inclusive environment".  

Commenting on the appointments, Professor Judy Williams, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Education and Students) and Professor Peter Robertson, Associate Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, said: 

“We are delighted to welcome Susan, Neil and Wei to these important Academic Lead roles. Their expertise and leadership will be instrumental in advancing Queen’s commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, helping to create a university community where students and staff members feel valued, supported, and empowered".