Chancellor takes tour of the Penryn Campus

The Chancellor met with students and staff during a series of informative and interactive events that highlighted some of the key activities and accomplishments taking place on the University’s main Cornwall campus.

The high-profile visit marked the culmination of a series of special events that have taken place at the campus over the academic year, to mark the 10-year anniversary of the Penryn Campus.

The Chancellor began the day with a memorable visit to the Camborne School of Mines’ (CSM) test mine, where she learned more about Cornwall’s illustrious mining history and the pivotal role the school plays in providing the next generation of mining engineers for projects based around the globe.

This was followed by a comprehensive tour of the Environment and Sustainability Institute (ESI), where the Chancellor was treated to a series of talks and demonstrations on the diverse range of interdisciplinary research being conducted there, including research into solar power, bee movements, and the relationships between humans and the environments in which they live. 

The Chancellor finished the afternoon with a trip through the Exchange and a visit to the Penryn Campus allotment gardens. There, the Falmouth & Exeter Students’ Union (FXU) held a mini festival profiling the work of students engaged with the Green Living Project, Life Magazine, and the Feminist Society.

The Chancellor heard about campaigns to reduce the use of disposable cups, and received her own reusable water bottle and coffee mug. Students also performed a song written in celebration of the importance of the environment.

Speaking after the visit, the Chancellor said: “I was most impressed to see the wonderful community created by the Penryn students and their sense of responsibility to change the world and make a real difference.

“This was never more evident than in the impressive Environment and Sustainability Institute, where I was given an insight to the exciting and innovative research projects being undertaken by students in the fields of technology and science, using a joined up and holistic philosophy.

“The learning environment created for and by the students was evident throughout, which included the library and allotment. I was also lucky enough to meet students from the Camborne School of Mines and tour the fascinating Troon Mine. This proved to be an exhilarating and unique experience and was a highlight of my visit.

“I am very grateful to the FXU, the staff and students at Penryn for their warm welcome and an inspiring, memorable and thoroughly enjoyable day in Cornwall.” 

Roger Auster, FXU President Student Experience, said: “It was a real honour to host the Chancellor on campus. Our students truly appreciated meeting with her and having the opportunity to showcase the incredible talent of the student community we have here in Cornwall.

“We all learned something special from the Chancellor during the proceedings and are incredibly grateful to Baroness Benjamin for joining us for such a special occasion.”