After five years as Vice President (Implementation), Steve Egan’s last day at the University is this Friday, 28 February. All are welcome at his farewell event this Thursday 27 February at 4.30pm at The Edge.
During his time at the University, Steve has championed the arts and the special role they play in our life as an academic community. As a thank you for all his support a selection of talented students and arts scholars will perform, including pianist Maria Carnarius (currently studying Mechanical Engineering) and spoken word poet Claire Guest (Chemical Engineering Graduate).
We asked Steve to reflect on his time at the University and the possibilities that lie ahead.
What will be your lasting memories of your time at the University of Bath?
There are lots. The wonderful poem by Claire Guest “Belong at The University of Bath” is a powerful and, for me, emotional connection with what it is like to be a student on the start of a journey of a lifetime. The many inaugural lectures by great professors, the Team Bath netball fixtures and rugby games at the Rec. The chance to be part of something great including the Institute of Advanced Automotive Propulsion and the Institute of Coding. And simply coffee in 4West Café, with so many interesting people from across the University.
What has been your favourite thing about being a part of the University?
I found joining the University a rejuvenating and energising experience. Being part of such a lively, stimulating, passionate and intellectual community has been a great privilege.
Getting involved in projects like the University’s response to Brexit has been really interesting, and working with others to overcome the multiple challenges that big strategic projects pose has given me a real sense of achievement.
But it’s also the simple things that have made me happy. The daily chats with Nigel, the University Chaplain, seeing a great student arts performance at The Edge, or being told off for singing at work...
What are your plans for retirement?
I want to work harder to improve my Spanish (quiero mejorar mi español) which I started learning just over a year ago at the foreign language centre here on campus. The Spanish speaking staff have been so supportive (gracias).
I will also continue refereeing American football games. I am particularly proud that I have been asked to referee the BUCS (university league) premiership final this year, which is a major milestone in the career of an American football referee.
Lastly, I have been appointed an honorary professor, which means I will still be helping with a few things at the Uni, so you haven’t seen the last of me yet!