Keele University has recently appointed Professor Pauline Walsh as Pro Vice-Chancellor and Executive Dean of the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.

Professor Walsh started her role in October 2017 her previous research focus has been around the student experience and in particular student attrition, belonging and retention and more recently has evolved into exploring the development of resilience within student’s but with a particular focus on their resilience in managing challenging issues during clinical placement.

After qualifying as a nurse in 1984, Professor Walsh practiced in a range of acute specialties before moving into education as a nurse tutor at Wolverhampton University where she developed interests in healthcare ethics and professional practice. Professor Walsh’s experience in curriculum development, placement learning and clinical assessment led to her pioneering the role of placement facilitator to promote learning in clinical practice. She moved to Keele in 2007 as a Senior Lecturer to lead undergraduate programmes prior to taking over as Head of the School of Nursing & Midwifery in 2010.

Professor Walsh has made outstanding contributions to the University with her focus on staff and student experience, alongside her strong commitment to working in partnership with the NHS and third-sector organisations, which has reflected in the School’s steady rise in national league tables.

Professor Walsh commented: “I have always had a passion for research led practice and education and since moving to Keele I have been keen to develop the School of Nursing and Midwifery, and I will continue to do so in my wider role as PVC and Executive Dean of the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.

“The faculty of medicine and health sciences provides excellent education and world class research and I’m looking forward to seeing continued growth and development in all areas.”