Kia ora koutou katoa,

I hope that you all have had a restful and refreshing break. It is with great honour that I introduce myself as the new Head of the School of Medical Sciences. I am truly privileged to step into this role and to lead such a committed community of educators, researchers, students, and professional staff who support those functions. I want to thank Malcolm for acting as Head of School for the last 7 months. He has done an excellent job steering the School through some very challenging times. Thank you also to the school executive for supporting him.

The School of Medical Sciences has a remarkable legacy of excellence in education, research, and innovation. I am eager to build on this strong foundation and to work alongside you to further advance a shared mission to promote excellence in the medical sciences through world-class teaching, groundbreaking research, and meaningful collaboration.

I recognise that change brings both opportunities and challenges, and I am committed to fostering an environment that values diversity, inclusivity, collaboration, well-being and professional growth. Your insights, ideas, and feedback will be invaluable as we navigate the year ahead, and I encourage open dialogue to ensure we continue to thrive as a School.

As you are all aware, the tertiary sector faces a shifting landscape, and we will need to be strategic and resourceful in addressing financial and structural challenges. However, I am confident that with our collective expertise, and dedication, we will sustain and enhance the high standards of excellence that define our School.

I look forward to meeting and working with each of you in the coming weeks and months. On 25 February, we will be holding a School forum where we will introduce our new Heads of Departments and provide an opportunity for you to discuss and explore how we can best work together to address matters impacting our School.

Please feel free to reach out, whether to introduce yourself, share your thoughts, or discuss ways we can collaborate.

Mā mua ka kite a muri, mā muri ka ora a mua I Those who lead give sight to those who follow, those who follow give life to those who lead.

Ngā manaakitanga,

Clare