Edge Hill University has secured a significant leadership appointment, announcing that Professor Abigail Moriarty will become its new Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Education and Students).
A Proven Leader in Student Experience
Professor Moriarty joins from the University of Lincoln, where she built a strong reputation for enhancing the student journey and driving educational innovation. Her notable achievements include leading a major project to reshape academic governance and designing a highly successful student retention initiative that significantly improved progression rates.
She is widely recognised for embedding a rigorous, data-driven approach to monitoring academic programmes and for her collaborative and inclusive leadership style, which consistently places students at the heart of strategic decision-making.
Strategic Vision for Edge Hill's Future
On her appointment, Professor Moriarty expressed her honour in joining the university community. She highlighted Edge Hill's established reputation for excellence, passion, and a deep commitment to student success through academic and digital innovation.
"I look forward to contributing to ongoing work in curriculum enhancement, staff development and income-generating initiatives such as apprenticeships and online courses," she stated. "I'm excited to work with colleagues to strengthen our shared focus on student success, satisfaction and employability."
Key Responsibilities and University Strategy
In her pivotal role, Professor Moriarty will provide strategic leadership across curriculum design, digital education development, work-integrated learning, and academic staff development. A core part of her remit will be to expand new income streams through apprenticeships, professional development courses, and high-quality educational partnerships.
She will also align the university's academic strategy with regional skills priorities and international demand, thereby strengthening Edge Hill's civic contribution while capitalising on global education opportunities.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Michael Young welcomed the appointment, stating: "Abigail will bring vision, energy and a wealth of experience. She will champion innovation in learning, teaching and assessment, including the use of digital technologies and AI, ensuring our students benefit from future-focused educational experiences."
Professor Moriarty will officially take up her position in April 2026, a date that coincides with the launch of Edge Hill's new University Strategic Plan, 'Our Connected Futures 2026-31'.
