Amanda Millar elected Chair of Court

Staff and students at the University of Dundee have elected Amanda Millar as Chair of Court, the University’s governing body.

She has been elected for a period of three years after receiving 523 votes to the 369 cast for William Patey, the other candidate in the election.

Court is responsible for overseeing the institution’s activities, agreeing its strategic direction, and ensuring an environment that allows the University to achieve its objectives and for all students and learners to realise their potential.

As Chair of Court, Ms Millar will be responsible for its leadership and effectiveness.

A solicitor by profession, she has extensive experience of corporate governance at national and local level. She was the first open member of the LGBTQ+ community to be President of Law Society of Scotland and is currently Chair of Samaritans Scotland Committee.

Her legal career was dedicated to representing the interests of vulnerable people, and she became the first solicitor in the country accredited as a specialist in both mental health law and incapacity and mental disability law.

“I am delighted to have been elected Chair of Court and particularly thrilled to see an increase in the numbers of those exercising their right to vote,” said Ms Millar. “I appreciate everyone who took the time to vote in the election.

“The University is just about to launch its new strategy. This, along with learning positively from the challenges of the last few years, make this an exciting time for Dundee. My core values of equality, equity, justice, and respect have led me to build a career based on honesty, integrity, clarity, and an ambitious desire to help people access opportunities and develop themselves.

“These values, combined with a track record of governance improvement, strategic progress, and a passionate belief in equality of opportunity, sit well with the University’s vision to positively transform lives. I look forward to leading the Court to govern, challenge and support the University in delivering on its aims over the next three years.”

Ms Millar will take over from outgoing Chair of Court Ronnie Bowie from 1 August 2022.

Dr Jim McGeorge, University Secretary and Chief Operating Officer, said, “A successful Chair of Court must share the University’s vision and values and Amanda has demonstrated a clear commitment to all these as well as possessing a highly impressive track record of delivering strategic goals on behalf of the organisations she has led.

“I want to thank both candidates for their interest in this important role and send our warmest congratulations to Amanda.”