 |
 |
 |
|
|
|
|
The first rectorial election for six years was an exciting occasion - not least because it was a hotly-fought contest between rival candidates Billy Kay and Tony Slattery.
After a whirlwind day of wooing students everywhere from the library to the art college and the Tav Bar, local broadcaster Billy Kay and comedian Tony Slattery braved an evening of strident heckling from a student body determined to weed out any weaklings. The pair faced questions and insults on everything from tuition fees to dress sense, coping with the onslaught with considerable aplomb - but in the end it was the wit, humour and celebrity status of Tony Slattery that won the day.
With the quick responses that characterised his appearances on the popular television series Whose Line is it Anyway the comedian silenced his critics and pledged to ‘represent students with all his heart and soul.’
Although local man Billy Kay showed a more intimate knowledge of the University and student issues Tony Slattery convinced the students that his level of commitment, willingness to learn and sheer enthusiasm for the role would compensate for any knowledge he lacked. ‘I don’t think that at this stage being a rector is dependent on grasping everything there is to grasp within the first few days - it’s about precision of thought and the ability to argue the case and win it in the face of opposition,’ he said.
After winning with a comfortable 601 votes to Billy Kay’s 331, his next challenge is his installation ceremony as rector later this year, when he will be dragged through the streets of Dundee in the rectorial carriage.
In interview the following day he revealed: ‘The request to stand for rector came out of the blue and I was extremely flattered and honoured and also immediately terrified by the idea - the role carries such a weight of responsibility if you take it seriously, as I am determined to do.’
‘I don’t want any rewards - I’ve had 13 years of being high profile, I’ve done television, I’ve earned a good amount of money, I’m not in it for kudos or prestige. I’ve done good work professionally but I’ve also done a lot of work that can be seen as fluff - such as quiz shows. In this role however I can make a difference to people’s lives - so I intend to throw myself into it absolutely heart and soul.’ He says he intends to attend all the court meetings - the first is on 16 March - as well as hold regular surgeries for the students where they can discuss issues and concerns.
‘I intend to be a rector not a celebrity - although I will shamelessly use whatever profile I have in the public eye if I think it is publicity that will benefit students and the university in general.’
