UHI Dean awarded Principal Fellowship for strategic leadership of high-quality learning and teaching

Dr Su Bryan, Dean of the Faculty of Science, Health and the Environment at the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI), has been recognised with Principal Fellowship by Advance HE. This prestigious award honours experienced professionals in higher education who demonstrate a sustained record of strategic leadership in learning and teaching.

Dr Bryan was recognised for her extensive impact in providing vision, direction, and transformational outcomes across the higher education sector. She has made a significant and lasting contribution, particularly through her work connecting academia with industry to address regional skills challenges and enhance the student experience.

With over 30 years of experience in education and academic leadership across Scottish universities, Dr Bryan holds an undergraduate degree in Biology from the University of Oxford and a PhD in Behavioural Ecology from the University of Stirling. She began her career in conservation before following her passion for education at the University of St Andrews. Since joining UHI in 2006, Dr Bryan has progressed through various senior roles, culminating in her current position as Dean in August 2023.

Her leadership experience spans a range of disciplines, including health, engineering, technology, and science, and she has made significant contributions to national education initiatives, particularly in computing, digital skills, and land and marine-based sectors. A passionate advocate for widening access to STEM careers, Dr Bryan also chairs the Highlands and Islands STEM Partnership, working to inspire the next generation of STEM professionals.

On receiving the award, Dr Bryan said:

“I am delighted to receive the recognition of Principal Fellowship with Advance HE, which acknowledges my commitment to student learning and my role as a strategic leader in education. My application focused on my contribution to connecting industry with academic staff and students to enhance the student experience and address regional skills challenges. This included our successful Integrated Land Use Conference and our digital skills strategy. Preparing the application, which required evidence of sustained impact over seven years, was a challenging but incredibly useful opportunity to reflect on my contributions, personal development and achievements, alongside my colleagues during this time.”

Professor Brian Williams, Interim Deputy Principal for Academic and Research at UHI, commented:

“Dr Bryan’s recognition as a Principal Fellow is not only testament to her many years of experience and commitment to higher education, but also to her many achievements along that path. Su is an exceptionally able and effective strategic leader with the ability to understand and negotiate an increasingly complex educational terrain, while also keeping a firm eye on the needs, experience and welfare of students. She is hugely respected by her colleagues, and I know they will join me in offering her their warmest congratulations."

Dr Bryan’s award highlights her commitment to the strategic leadership of high-quality learning and teaching, and she now joins a distinguished group of Principal Fellows contributing to the development of teaching excellence in the UK and beyond.